Unless you are lucky enough to afford a brand new car, then you will probably be looking for a second hand vehicle. When buying your first car there are a lot of things to consider. The key to making the right choice is research.
If this will be your first car then you are bound to be excited, but it is better to stay calm, be sensible, and take the time to make the right choice. If you make a mistake, you could lose a lot of money or have a nasty accident, or both! You can be ripped off in many different ways. It is often difficult to distinguish between a disguised 'disaster car' and a sound buy. This guide will help you to tell the difference.

Before you rush off to find your first car …
Research
	Decide what make and model you are interested in.
	Set a budget and stick to it.
	Find out what the insurance costs are likely to be on the type of car you are looking for.
	Think about servicing and repair costs. Where would you take the car to be fixed and serviced?

Whether you buy from a dealer or privately, there are many things to look out for and check. Don't be in a hurry to buy, there are plenty of cars out there, and plenty of people ready to take your money. Shop around and compare prices for cars of the same age and condition.

What to look for when buying a car
	Look for reputable dealers - ask the advice of friends. Also look for a trade association sign which means that the garage should follow a code of practice.
	Take care when buying from private owners as you have fewer legal rights than when buying from a dealer. Keep a copy of the advertisement or write down anything the seller says.
	If buying privately, make sure the seller's name and address is on the vehicle registration document.
	Make sure the registration document correctly describes the car you are buying.
	Take along a mechanic friend. Examine the car in broad daylight and also take it for a test drive. Alternatively get it looked at by a professional or an independent qualified examiner.
	Ask to see the service record, and if the car is more than three years old, the MOT certificate. Does the car's condition match up with the documents and records?
	If you buy from a garage, check what any guarantee covers and what it excludes. Is there a warranty of any kind?

Ask lots of questions about the car. If the vendor is genuine and honest, he or she will be happy to tell you anything you want to know. Remember if you are at all suspicious about the vendor or the car you are viewing, then walk away!

Buying any used car can be a gamble, but you can reduce the risk by getting independent expert advice.