Other sections in this guide
- Overview
- How to buy a used car video
- Check and test-drive a used car video
- Used car video reviews
Buying a car How to buy a used car video
Whether you fancy a Mini or a Mercedes, our 10-step guide will help you find your perfect used car at the right price.
Then, when you've found a car you like, click through to the next page for advice about essential car checks and the test-drive.
Video guide to buying a used car
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Top 10 used car buying tips
Think about how much space you need and what running costs will be
1. What do you need?
Before you start your search, think about your practical requirements. Do you need space for a baby buggy in the boot, or the added ground clearance of a 4x4?
Then work out your budget: every car review on the Which? Car website includes a second-hand starting price to give you an idea of what you can afford.
2. Think about running costs
Depreciation (reduction in value due to increasing age and mileage) is usually the biggest running cost. This becomes less significant the older the car gets, though.
Remember to save for insurance, maintenance, car tax and fuel, too. Our online cost calculator will help you decide whether a petrol or diesel car will suit you best.
3. Research prices
Independent car dealers may offer a warranty, so always ask
Keep an open mind when drawing up a shortlist of potential used cars – an unpopular engine or an unfashionable badge could lead to a bargain.
You can get an idea of how much various cars will cost by perusing classified ads online, in local papers and in listings magazines, such as Auto Trader.
4. Get a valuation
Our online car valuation tool gives you a bespoke valuation for the exact car you’re thinking of buying. Simply input the registration number and mileage.
Which? members can use the tool free of charge. If you’re not a member, you can obtain a single valuation for £3.50, or sign up for a trial to Which? for £1 and use the tool for free.
5. Dealer or private?
An ‘approved used’ car from a manufacturer's franchised dealer is usually the most expensive option, but the car should have been checked thoroughly, and it will come with a warranty.
Independent dealers generally offer lower prices, and more choice as they’re not tied to a particular marque. However, any warranty offered may be limited.
Always haggle for a discount, but keep your tone even and polite
Buying from a private seller is usually cheapest, although most cars are ‘sold as seen’ so you will have very little legal comeback if things go wrong.
Finally, a car auction could be cheaper still. Auctions are fast-paced, though, so make sure you set a budget and stick to it. Attend a sale first to learn the ropes before you decide to bid.
6. History and finance check
A used car history check will show if the car has outstanding finance, or has previously been stolen or written-off by an insurance company.
Checking companies get their data from various sources, including the DVLA, the Police National Computer and the Association of British Insurers.
7. Haggle hard!
If, after checking and test-driving the car, you decide to buy, it's time to negotiate a price. Look for things that could be costly, such as a short MOT or worn tyres, and use these as bargaining points.
Before you buy, check the Which? website for the best finance rates
Decide how much you're prepared to pay, and don't exceed this amount. Once you have agreed a price, write it down. This should avoid any potential confusion later.
8. Car to trade in?
If you’re buying from a dealer, you may decide to trade in your current car. However, you’re unlikely to get as much for it as you would if you sold it privately.
If you do take the trade-in option, remember it’s the ‘price to change’ that matters: the difference between what you get for your old car and what you pay for your new one. The smaller this gap, the better.
9. Arrange finance
The cheapest way to buy a used car is to pay cash upfront. If you can’t afford to do that, check the Which? website for the best finance rates – dealer finance can be expensive.
You could also consider leasing, (effectively a long-term hire with fixed monthly payments). In all cases, make sure you know exactly how much you’ll be paying.
If you need help finding the best finance deal, you can speak directly to one of our money experts.
10. Save on servicing
Congratulations - you've bought a car! Some used cars will still be covered by the manufacturer's warranty, but that doesn't mean you need to go to a franchised dealer for servicing and repairs.
Independent garages are often cheaper and, according to the Which? Car Survey, usually offer a better service, too. Read our guide to finding a good garage and save money.
