Can you tell a bargain from a banger? Did you know that if you run a magnet along the bodywork and it doesn’t stick, it has been crash repaired?? Neither did I, in fact I’m totally clueless which is why I got a friend of mine who works at a car dealership to put together this guide for you. I hope you find it useful, please pass it on and share any advice you may have.

1. Initial homework – Find out about the car you are considering. Check out any known mechanical problems with that model. The best bet would be to google ‘mechanical problems with x car’ and see what you find.

2. Research- Know exactly what you should be paying for a particular make and model. Look at www.carzone.ie, www.autotrader.ie, www.donedeal.ie, www.carsireland.ie

3. Running costs – Plenty of costs in relation to running a car, including -
Insurance – do a quick check on the internet. Go to www.bestquote.ie . It will give you a quick estimate.
Road tax – is the car currently taxed, if so when does it run out. Cars are now taxed depending on CO2 emissions – click here.
General running costs – fuel economy, servicing, tyres etc. Use the guides on www.whatcar.com.

4. Proper documentation – When looking at the car insist on seeing the registration documentation, the NCT certificate (if more than 4 years old) and any other paperwork relating the car.
Chassis number – sometimes called the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). It will appear on both the Log book and on a metal plate under the bonnet. Make sure both match and the metal plate hasn’t been tampered with around the edges
Background check – go to www.motorcheck.ie to do a full check car- is there outstanding finance on the car? Has the colour been changed? Was it previously a Taxi? Has it been clocked?
Service records - the more paperwork the better as this shows if the car has been regularly maintained. If a service record is not available has the owner kept any of the service or repair bills?

5. Ask a knowledgeable friend – It’s not always possible but if you have a friend who knows about cars, especially mechanics, then take them along and see what they say.

6. Examine the car in daylight - Carefully examine the car in good daylight. Look for signs of repairs and accident damage. Use scratches and other accident related damage to bargain down the price. Click here for a full guide on what to look for. Click here for a full guide on what to look for.

7. Is the mileage legitimate? – Make sure the car hasn’t been clocked. The average mileage is around 12,000 per year so be wary if the general wear and tear doesn’t add up to the mileage.
Look specifically at the wear on the pedals and the surrounding driving mat. Also look at the tyres, if they need to be replaced soon (within 5,000 miles) factor that into the price you bid the owner.

8. Test drive – Always test-drive the car for at least 10 miles but make sure you’re insured to drive it – check with your current policy.

9. Independent inspection – It’s best to get it checked professionally. If you don’t know a mechanic who will do it for you. You can get it done by these guys for only €99 -click here

10. Haggle haggle haggle – go with a price in mind, arguments to back up your offer (similar cars you’ve seen online- have evidence). Is the NCT up soon?= lower price. Does the tyres need replacing soon = lower price? Click here for a guide on how to haggle.

11. Before handing over the money – Never hand over any money until you have all the documents relating to the car. Plus, get a written receipt for the car which includes the sellers name and address.

12. Valid insurance – Finally, make sure you have insurance in place from the minute you drive the car away.