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Used cars can be a minefield. Nearly any car is possibly a lemon.

Let’s commence with purchasing. You will discover legitimate bargains in local used car dealers showrooms and the classified listings. Trying to find used motor vehicles on-line takes almost all of the leg work out of the picture. I saved ?1500 on a low mileage vehicle worth ?8,000 : all I did was find a demonstrator that the branch of a nationwide company clearly required off the forecourt.

On the other hand, websites like Autotrader, whilst they have a bias for the trade, are helpful with regard to comparing prices – specifically if you are ready to travel for the right vehicle. You could check out Gumtree and Ebay classified ads and many others, if you would like stay local. Whether you opt for purchasing from a dealership or the free classified sites can depend on the amount you’re shelling out and whether you have got something to trade-in.

For those who are purchasing a ‘runner’ you are no doubt buying from the free classified sites. Get the car independently valued and inspected before you commit yourself. It’s not difficult to confirm the value and history of the vehicle on the net. You’ll want to know it’s been valued properly and not been in an accident or reported stolen. As for road merit, outfits like the AA do a pre-purchase review.

But remember a private seller won’t offer finance and is unlikely to be helpful any time things go wrong. However if you can come up with money there’s a chance you’re onto a winner, even if you have to sell your old car privately.

Advertising used vehicles privately is not for the fainthearted. Get the car valued online and then see how much they are being offered for. A recent MOT and repair history always helps. If using online free car advertising such as classifieds to sell, be crystal-clear within your wording and terminology about whether or not your price is negotiable. Advertising the car as ‘open to any inspection’ often helps. Always speak to potential buyers before they view the vehicle. Use the contact to weed out timewasters. And finally, don’t allow viewers to test drive your vehicle unaccompanied.