If the dealer is kosher
They will have their own trade policy which will allow you to take an accompanied test drive on trade plates. If they haven't got that, you are dealing with Pikey Motors plc, so steer clear.

Taxing is a bugger. Some insurance companies will email you a cover note that the post office will accept for taxing purposes, however AND I DON'T CARE HOW MANY TIMES YOU SAY THIS DIRECT LINE YES I'M LOOKING AT YOU WITH YOUR POOFY WEE TELEPHONE a fax is NOT accepted for taxing purposes. Proof of cover for a courtesy car, yes, but not taxing. It's an archaic and expensive system which will be phased out over the next coupla years, but I ramble.

You are covered by the Sale of Goods Act for all purchases (and no, they can't put 'sold as seen' on the invoice unless you agree to it) and a lot of smaller dealers will be accredited by some sort of local council/trading standards scheme. If you can, pay for the car on credit card (and pay it off straight away, natch) NOT VISA DEBIT, which will make the transaction covered by the Consumer Credit Act so if the car's a lemon or there any disputes further down the line you have additional protection.

Again, reputable dealers should offer some form of warranty (usually RAC, Motorplan or the like). Get this chucked in, and then search the tinterweb for a standalone warranty covering the big bits. Available cover depends on the age of vehicle.

Don't be afraid to ask to have the vehicle inspected (doesn't have to be the eye-wateringly expensive AA job, there are independants), or freshly MOT'd. If it was done 3 weeks ago, chances are you're being a bit pushy, but if it's only got 3 months to run...

Having said that, all this does depend on budget. If you're after £500 worth of Yarmouth, then you won't be getting the Batmobile. If you're spending a few bob, expect more.

And never forget the Autotrader.
(osok Rebel without a clue, Wed 27 Aug 2008, 15:54, Reply)