Buying a used car

If you are buying a used car from a dealer this means you are given legal protection.

Car Dealers are legally obliged to sell used cars which are of 'satisfactory quality', which basically means that apart from the usual wear and tear of the used car, a used car must be free from any defects except ones pointed out to you and those which should have been uncovered by an inspection and it must be in a certain roadworthy condition. The car dealer must also have legal title to the used car they are selling. And finally the car dealer must describe the car as accurately as possible, e.g. a used car cannot be advertised as having had one careful owner if it has actually had three previous owners.

When buying used cars privately, as long as the vehicle is accurately described, you have no legal comeback if there are any faults with the used car.

Reputable car dealers should be members of a trade association, such as the society of Irish Motor Industry and be bound by its code of conduct.

Franchised outlets will usually have the pick of the best used cars, and offer the most comprehensive warranties available.

Manufacturers' used car approved schemes can take even more risk out of buying a used car. Apart from good sales service and car reliability, you can expect a full car history check, and quite often a free warranty. You can also usually part exchange your old car to make life a lot easier.

Car supermarkets

It should be noted that independent car supermarkets have mushroomed in the last decade, offering huge numbers of nearly-new and low-mileage used cars on massive sites. Prices tend to be very attractive, however, there is usually less room for haggling.

Options are limited and the stock usually consists of basic models, so if you're looking for a rare used car you're unlikely to find it at a supermarket. They also rarely offer the after-sales support and warranty you'll get from a car dealer.

Buying privately

Buying used cars privately can usually turn out to be the cheapest option, but it really is 'buyer beware' with a private sale and you must really be extra careful when dealing with some sellers.

You should be aware that the seller's only legal obligation is to describe the used car accurately and you should take this into account when purchasing used cars.

But don't let this put you off. If you're sensible, and do all the right checks, an exellent deal could be waiting for you.