Go for a ride, don't be taken for one. Review on General Tips on Buying a Car

It's always a bit of a task buying a car, especially if you don't know too much about them and are looking to buy a second hand one.

My advise is to try and take someone with you who knows about engines and cars in general.

Let them look over the car for you and ask their opinion.

A good thing to look at first is the condition of the body work, is it rotting in any place?.

This could be costly when it comes to having welding done.Are there any bits of rust or paint peeling off the car your looking at?.

Check the water in the engine, is there any sign of oil in the water? If there is the head gasket could be going and this also will set you back a bit of money to get it fixed, or it will cause the engine to overheat.

Check the tread on the tyres, make sure all the lights, horn and wipers work, these are often overlooked as people tend to be to shy to jump in the car and have a good look. It's always a bit daunting, especially if you happen to go looking at a traders car, as they always seem to know all the right things to say and will try to convince you to buy as quickly as they can, by telling you someone else is due to look at the car, don't be rushed into a decision untill your ready.

If your buying a diesel car feel the engine, is it warm? Some diesels are hard to start from cold and sellers sometimes get the car started before you arrive, so that it starts up first turn of the key.

You think its a good starter, only to be stuck with a car that won't start on a cold winters morning.

Look at the M.o.T papers and see if they last a while, if it's just been tested your more likely to have found a good deal than one which is just about to expire.

Always go for a test drive, see if there are any unusual noises, or is the car pulling to one side, if there are any problems or you are not sure, don't feel obliged to buy.

I always buy second hand cars, not being able to afford new, but always take someone who knows cars with me, I like to know I'm getting a good deal before I part with my money.

Ask if the car is sold as seen, or try and get a 24hr guarantee on it, usually if the seller is genuine they will give you 24hrs to change your mind.

Providing you haven't damaged the car.

Well I hope this has been of some help to you when you buy your next car.