What you need to know before buying a used car

Those that take the used option could find themselves with a top-of-the-range car at a fraction of its price new.

However, it is important to remember used cars do need to have been looked after so they can provide trouble-free motoring.

When buying a used car, it is best to buy from a reputable garage. Main dealers and independents that belong to the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI) agree to comply with a code of practice drawn up by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT).

So, once you have decided to buy a second-hand car, you need to ask yourself which kind of car you want.

RMI franchised dealer director, Alan Pulham said: "In the trade, there are a number of car categories that make up the second-hand market.

"Cars are usually priced as nearly new, or used. Used cars fall into two sub-categories: one to three years old and over three years old.

"Nearly new cars are up to one year old, often have very low mileage and are usually thousands of pounds cheaper than they were new, just a few months before. This means you should get good value for money.

"Main dealers generally offer a good supply of carefully prepared late model, low mileage, used cars and demonstrators with genuine mileage and service histories.

The efficient after sales service and warranties offered also help to ensure peace of mind, as do mechanical breakdown service, insurance services, hire purchase facilities and servicing back-up."

Independent garages also offer a wide service.

Pulham explained: "An independent garage is likely to have cars on its forecourt that span a wider age range from the low mileage to older and less expensive models.

"Used car buyers not only make savings on the purchase price of the car, but may also benefit from cheap insurance. Depending on the age of the car, improved value can be had by servicing and repairing a used car through an independent garage."