How to find a great value used car

Shopping used cars can feel like a game of chance, but with the right approach you’re almost guaranteed to get a great deal rather than an old banger. Rather than rushing into a decision, follow these simple steps from planning to inspection to ensure you secure a dependable car.

1. Outline your priorities

Ensure you find a vehicle that adds value to your life to by outlining your priorities before browsing listings. Consider your budget, the space you need, and the fuel-efficiency features that suit your typical journeys from cruise control to a stop-start system. You should also think about less tangible requirements such as brand reliability and maintenance demands.

Figuring out your priorities and using these as the foundation of your search from the get-go will help you avoid investing in the wrong type of vehicle or jumping at a low upfront price for a car that would be more expensive to run long term.

2. Compare available models

Once you’ve established your requirements, narrow your search to specific makes and models that fit the bill. Compare and contrast these to identify a shortlist that promise the most for your money. Don’t forget to consider depreciation rates as some brands hold their value better than others, and you want to make sure you can get the biggest possible return on your investment.

Remember you can buy used cars through independent sellers and search popular websites as well as dealerships in your local area. Buying from an independent seller carries more risk but is often cheaper. Whichever route you choose to go down, see what others have to say to ensure you don’t get caught out by a bad deal. Browse recent reviews and other useful trust indicators like reliability surveys and do your best to check that the seller is legitimate.

3. Conduct pre-purchase checks

Never buy a used car without inspecting it thoroughly. Before you even get there, run an HPI check for concealed issues such as outstanding finance agreements or mileage discrepancies. Buying a vehicle with a hidden past could end up being extremely expensive with sky-high insurance premiums, and you may struggle to sell it onto another buyer in the future.

When you get to the vehicle, start by looking over the exterior for signs of damage. This might include rust and dents, or mismatched paint or panel gaps that indicate a previous accident. Once you’ve circled the outside a couple of times, get inside the car and check for wear and tear on the seats and steering wheel.

You should also take the car for a test drive and listen for unusual noises which could indicate issues with the engine, tyres or brakes.  Pay attention to how the clutch and gearbox feel and try the car at different speeds and over varied road surfaces to expose any suspension faults.

4. Negotiate the price

Once you've found a car that meets your requirements and passes all checks, don’t accept the asking price without questioning it! Sellers often list cars at a higher price than they expect to get, allowing room for negotiation. Simply trying your luck with a lower offer you deem fair could save you hundreds if not thousands on your deal.