The safer way to buy a car the AdTrader way.

Buying a car is not easy and it's alot of money to part with to then find that you have bought a turkey! Below we've given a few tips that should give you more confidence, but if possible take someone who knows motors with you.

1. Buying a car takes time and care – don’t rush it, you don’t want to make an expensive mistake. Do your research – know comparable selling prices for the car you are viewing.
2. A test drive is essential to find out if the car is what you are looking for and to highlight any issues before buying the car. The seller will want to see your licence and insurance first though.
3. If possible drive the car from cold -this will highlight any running problems such as smoke and poor starting.
4. Use all the gears, drive at different, speeds on a variety of road surfaces. Try the hand brake.
5. Listen carefully for any grinding, screeching, knocking or vibrations as these could indicate problems.
6. Check the wheels for damage and tyres for wear (1.6mm is legal min)
   
7. Look on the bodywork for dents scratches and rust. Look for signs of respraying or filling.
8. Is the interior condition consumerate with the cars mileage?
9. Check the oil and water for colour, contaminants and levels.
10. The VIN (Vehicle ID number) plate must be intact and correspond with the logbook.
11. Get peace of mind have a Vehicle Check this will tell you if the car is stolen, written off or has outstanding finance.
    
12. Ask questions:- How long is the tax and MOT valid? What is the condition of the car?
    Why is it for sale? Has it had an accident? How many previous owners?
13. Meet the seller at their home, make a note of the address and get their landline telephone number don't meet in a carpark.
14. If you buy the car, get all of the paperwork, and get a receipt for the price paid.
15. If in doubt walk away, dont be pressurised.