for new drivers looking for a used car, where are the best places to look?

fitnessguy1

apart from online sites like autotrader, gumtree etc, where else would you suggest? i am looking to buy a cheap(ish) used car soon so once i've passed my test i already have one. where else would be the best place to look?

i want to make sure everything about the car is legit. my budget limit is £750. i don't want to spend more than that on a first car until i have saved for something better.

bengalknights

Try a look for trade ins at local garages to, these tend to be quite cheap if you take if off there hands.

fitnessguy1

bengalknights wrote: »

Try a look for trade ins at local garages to, these tend to be quite cheap if you take if off there hands.

i am looking for a little ford fiest zetec, maybe around 2001 reg. once i have the money i would then like to go for maybe a mazda2 or ford fiesta st. for now though i want a cheap little runaround as i won't be driving long distances tbh.

agrinnall

Local paper ads, notices in newsagent windows, etc.

As a new driver you probably need to get at least a year or two experience and no claims under your belt before considering anything like an ST otherwise you'll be paying a fortune in insurance.

waamo

Local supermarkets often have a small advert board. Word of mouth helps too.

If there is a small back street garage near they often hear of cars going.

fitnessguy1

agrinnall wrote: »

Local paper ads, notices in newsagent windows, etc.

As a new driver you probably need to get at least a year or two experience and no claims under your belt before considering anything like an ST otherwise you'll be paying a fortune in insurance.

i will likely stick with my first car for a few years anyway. i am not someone to spend much money on a car unless:

a. i have the money to afford too
b. i am travelling long distances

i generally will only be using the car for commutes to work, socialising and general use. i won't be driving on long commutes such as motorway journeys. those i will do by train if needs be.

waamo

Cars are money pits. Keep an open mind as to make and model as the insurance for the first few years can be eye watering.

If you are close to taking a test it might be worth trying getting some "dummy" quotes for comparison sites to see what you are likely to be paying. That may sway you in your choice of vehicles. Running costs can be big as well.