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If you’re planning on buying a used car, it’s worthwhile taking a bit of time to think it through.

Supply chain issues, and the <a href="https://www.jpmorgan.com/insights/research/supply-chain-chip-shortage">global semiconductor chip shortage</a>, has limited the production of new cars. This has hugely increased the demand for used cars, causing average prices to soar.

There are still, however, many advantages to buying a used car. Choosing a pre-owned car makes it possible for you to get the model you’ve always wanted, and you could still save some money.&nbsp;

It’s important to remember that used cars come with their own risks and possible expenses. To avoid any unexpected surprises, it’s important to do your research, and to ask the right people, the right questions.&nbsp;

In this way, you’re more likely to end up with a good quality, approved used vehicle, that’s right for your budget and day-to-day circumstances.&nbsp;

Caruno is always here to help. If you’re buying a new car, here are 8 tips to help you find the right car:

Start by listing the reasons why you want to buy a car, and what you’ll need it for.&nbsp;

Is the car for short trips around the city, or for longer journeys? Do you need a certain amount of passenger or luggage space? What sort of technology or safety features are you wanting? Are you thinking diesel, petrol, electric, or hybrid?&nbsp;

Rank your points in order of importance. This’ll clarify your needs and narrow down your search.

Now it’s time to start researching different options. Go online and read reviews, watch videos, check safety and performance ratings. Remember fuel, tax, and insurance costs are also important considerations. 

2.&nbsp;Where to buy your used car?&nbsp;

Options for buying a used car include dealerships, manufacturer showrooms, garages, private sellers, auctions, and <a href="https://www.caruno.co.uk">online</a>.&nbsp;

A dealership will give more assistance before and after the sale than buying at an auction, or from a private seller. Dealerships often offer ‘approved used’ cars, meaning they are put through an inspection process, and often carry a warranty.

If you choose a private sale, make sure you know enough about cars. Although it may prove cheaper, it’s likely the car won’t carry an ‘approved used’ status, or a warranty.

Online purchases are another option. At caruno, all our ‘approved used’ cars pass through a vigorous <a href="https://www.caruno.co.uk/about-us/caruno-car-quality">275-point check</a> before we offer them to you.

When buying a used car, running costs are important to consider as they add up quickly.

Carefully inspecting the car, in the daylight, is very important.

A thorough document check is a must. Make sure to inspect the following:

<b>VC5 logbook (V5 registration document)&nbsp;</b>

Check your logbook to see if the make, model, and license plate number match the car.

For private sales, make sure the registered keeper is the same person who is selling you the car. The registered address must also be the same.&nbsp;

If there are multiple former owners listed in the logbook, this could be a reason for concern. Make sure to ask why this is the case.

Make sure the car’s MOT is up to date. Check to see if there are any advisories that will need to be addressed soon.

It’s very important to test drive any car you’re thinking of buying. You can check for any issues and see if you enjoy driving the car.

Test driving for a private sale? Makes sure your insurance covers this or take the owner along for the ride.&nbsp;

If you’re buying online, over the phone, or long-distance, make sure the car comes with a <a href="https://www.caruno.co.uk/money-back-guarantee">money-back guarantee</a>.

Once you know the used car you want to buy, it’s time to haggle.

In a polite manner, make sure to highlight any issues that may lower the asking price. If you don’t feel the deal is worth the money, you can always look elsewhere.

Dealerships often offer discounts and purchase perks. It’s always worth asking after this.

When purchasing, remember to insist on a receipt and all relevant documentation.

If it’s a private sale, it’s a good idea to avoid paying in cash. Rather use a trackable payment method.

There are many different car finance options available. However, always make sure to compare the cost of borrowing over the agreement term. This includes interest and any charges.&nbsp;

Read our article <a href="https://www.caruno.co.uk/advice-and-guides/can-you-lease-a-used-car">Can you lease a used car and how does it work</a> for more information.

If you are seriously considering a private sale, please keep in mind that it’s always a riskier route to take. You won’t have as much legal protection as you would with a dealership deal.

So, it’s always wise to carefully research the seller and the car before buying.

If you buy your used car from an online motor trader like caruno, you’ll receive more legal protection.

Remember, caruno’s cars have undergone our guaranteed quality 275-point check. This means you will always receive an “approved used” vehicle that is right for you.

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Buying a used car: 8 tips to help you find the right car