Write down what the car has to do
Start with a normal week: miles driven, longest regular trip, passengers, luggage, parking and whether you can charge at home or work. Make a short list of essentials and a separate list of things you would like. This stops a good-looking advert becoming the decision.
Take your pushchair, mobility aid, work equipment or child seat to the viewing if it matters. Boot litres do not tell you whether an awkward item will fit through the opening. Sit in every seat you will use and check the doors, visibility and driving position.
- Measure your parking space and check height restrictions.
- Choose three to five models that meet the essentials.
- Compare the actual cars for sale, including trim and equipment.
Choose a fuel type for your driving
Petrol often suits lower mileage and shorter trips; diesel may suit regular long motorway journeys, but check local emissions rules and maintenance history. A full hybrid does not need plugging in. A plug-in hybrid makes most sense when you can charge it frequently. A battery-electric car needs a workable charging routine, especially if you cannot charge at home.
Do not assume an SUV has more usable space than an estate, or that two cars with the same engine name have the same emissions rating. Check the exact registration if you regularly enter a Clean Air Zone.
Price the exact car before you visit
Get an insurance quote using the registration, your drivers and your address. Check the vehicle tax rate, tyre size and service schedule. If you are borrowing, compare the full amount payable rather than choosing by the monthly payment alone.
Ask the seller for the registration, exact trim, service evidence, number of keys, known faults and what the advertised price includes. If a feature matters, ask for written confirmation that this particular car has it. Specifications can change within a model year.
- Set a purchase ceiling and keep money aside for repairs.
- Compare insurance, tax, fuel or charging and likely maintenance.
- Confirm the car is available before making a long trip.
Try the things you will use every day
Test the seat and steering adjustment, door opening, rear-seat access, controls, parking cameras and phone connection. Take the car on a route like your commute rather than only around the block. If you share driving, both drivers should try it.
If the car falls short on something essential, keep looking. It is easier to change your shortlist than to live with a car that is uncomfortable or too expensive to run.
Useful links
Check these pages for current rules, costs and eligibility.