So you have decided to buy a second hand car, or you might still be in the process of deciding, either way, here are some pieces of advice on what to look out for and avoid when second-hand car shopping.

Firstly, it is always a good idea to research the type of car you are interested in buying. Are you looking for a people carrier, a sports car, a vintage car, or a SUV? Make a decision based on your current or future needs. Then you should look into the market prices for the car that you are looking for so that you don’t overspend. If you don’t know what make or model you are looking for (many second-hand car buyers focus more on the amount of money they have to spend rather than being too fussy about which car they want) then shop around and find a car that suits your needs and pocket.

Once you have decided on what car you want, you will be able to determine what its insurance and general running costs will be: petrol consumption, windscreen replacements, tyres and servicing costs are just some of the expenses you will have to budget for.

What is your car insurance policy going to cost every month? The make, model and age of your car will affect its insurance premium so be sure to shop around and get a range of quotes from a variety of car insurance providers.

When you are scouting around for a car and spot one you like, make sure it’s road tax is paid and it has MOT. If not this can act as a bargaining chip to get its price lowered. You should also always insist on a test drive, preferably from a cold start, as this will help you determine whether the car’s starting mechanism is in order.

Other than these things you should look at the general condition of the cars’ interior and exterior. Check for rust, scratches and dents on the outside and examine the upholstery closely on the inside of the car. This is especially important if you are looking for a vintage car, as any interior or exterior damage will reduce the vintage value. All of these tips will help you make an informed decision, but ultimately it comes down to value for money.