Buyer guides
Free guides to buy a used car with confidence.
How to spot an accident-damaged used carA practical checklist to detect signs of a previous accident, body repair or repaint before you buy a used car — panel gaps, paint, welds, documents and more.How to check a VIN before buying a used carWhat a VIN is, where to find it, what a VIN check reveals, and the red flags to watch for before buying a used car.7 signs a used car has been repaintedRepaint is not always hiding an accident, but it is worth understanding. Here are seven visible signs that a car has been resprayed.The complete used car inspection checklistA step-by-step checklist to inspect a used car like a pro: bodywork, tyres, engine bay, interior, underbody, test drive and paperwork.Engine noises at start-up and what they meanKnocking, rattling, squealing or rough idle at cold start can reveal expensive problems. Here is how to interpret common engine noises.How to negotiate the price of a used carPractical tactics to negotiate a used car with confidence: research, market value, using inspection findings, timing and walk-away power.15 questions to ask a used car sellerThe right questions reveal a car's true history and expose evasive sellers. Here are 15 to ask before you buy — and the answers that should worry you.How to detect odometer fraud (mileage rollback)Mileage rollback makes a worn car look fresh and inflates its price. Learn the signs of odometer fraud and how to protect yourself.How to spot a flood-damaged carFlood damage causes hidden corrosion and electrical failures for years. Here are the tell-tale signs a used car has been under water.Buying from a dealer vs a private sellerDealers offer warranties and protection but cost more; private sellers are cheaper but riskier. Here's how to choose and protect yourself either way.Buying a used electric car: how to check battery healthThe battery is the most valuable part of a used EV. Learn how to assess its health, range and warranty before you buy.The used car test drive checklistA good test drive reveals what a parked car hides. Follow this checklist for the engine, gearbox, brakes, steering and more.Common used car scams and how to avoid themFrom mileage rollback to cloned cars and fake escrow, here are the most common used car scams and the simple steps that defeat them.How much mileage is too much on a used car?Mileage matters, but how the car was used and maintained matters more. Here's how to judge whether a car's mileage is a problem.Paperwork and documents when buying a used carThe right documents protect you and prove the car is legally and mechanically sound. Here's the paperwork checklist before you pay.How to import a used carImporting can save money or find a rare model, but customs, taxes and registration add complexity. Here's how to import a used car safely.Used car warranties explainedLegal warranty, dealer warranty, extended cover or none at all — understand what protects you when buying a used car and what each really covers.Car insurance: what to sort before you buyInsurance cost can make or break a used car deal. Here's how to estimate premiums, arrange cover for the drive home, and avoid surprises.City car, saloon or SUV: which type to chooseThe right body type depends on your real needs, not trends. Compare city cars, saloons, estates and SUVs on cost, space and running costs.Buying your first car: how to set a budgetYour first car costs more than its price tag. Learn how to budget for purchase, insurance, fuel, tax and repairs — and avoid first-buyer mistakes.Petrol, diesel, hybrid or electric: which to chooseEach fuel type suits a different driver. Compare petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric on cost, mileage and use to pick the right used car.