If you are in the market for a new car, but you aren't keen to spend a lot of money, you will more than likely be looking to go second hand. Short of car leasing, buying a used vehicle is the best way to avoid spending an enormous chunk of cash, however, the business is not without its pitfalls.
In the past, second hand car dealers had something of a reputation for shadiness. Today, this is not the case to the same extent; however, it is still important to go into every showroom with your eyes wide open. A discerning attitude is essential if you're going to achieve any kind of success, as are a couple of other intelligent buying strategies.
To begin with, if you can afford it, it is always a good idea to look at vehicles that are younger than five years old. These tend to be the best value for money since they cost substantially less than they did when new, but they remain fairly up-to-date and contemporary.
It is also wise to bring your own expert along with you. If you can, get hold of your mechanic and ask him or her to come and have a look at a vehicle you've got your eye on. This way you can verify the engine quality and condition before taking the car home with you, and this will help you to make a more successful purchase.
In short, the business of buying a second hand car is no longer the same danger-fraught procedure that it used to be. However, in order to ensure that you make a good buy, it is advisable to be on your guard going in, and to run potential options past an impartial expert.