Trade seller or Private ?

[mpulztracker]

Hi Guys,

I'm looking to buy a cheapo car under ?1200... I have never bought a car in the UK before.. I was wondering what's the best place to source the car from. Would you go to a Trade seller ( used car dealership etc) or a private seller ? Cheers

 

[Ice_warmer]

you can get screwed either way.

best bet is to take someone form a car club with you.

 

[LeVeL]

Private is usually cheaper but you have to be careful as there is obviously no warranty or anything. Like emil_t said, bring along a mechanically-inclined friend that will know what to look for.

 

[waydee]

I'd say private but just as the guys above have said, make sure you get it properly looked at - actually that applies to a trade seller too.

You'll likely save a couple hundred or so with a private seller but need to ensure that any saving isn't going to be instantly wasted on a repair that would have been covered under a warranty. Stating the obvious a bit but just be as certain as you can on the cars condition and ask a lot of questions. When it comes to cars in the ?1200 mark you'll most likely get more for your money by going privately though, what costs ?1200 at a dealer could very likely cost ?800 privately,