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It’s just one of those mornings. As the rain pours down and I’m trying to start my mini (yes those old small ones). I decide it’s time to buy a new car.

Now, before I embark on this wonderful journey - there are a few stumbling blocks I need to sort out. I can’t afford a new car, but I’m sure I can find a nice, affordable second hand car somewhere. I have no idea what to look for in a used car.

For me it’s all about how cute I will look in it and that it will take me from point A to point B. I know nothing more than what is absolute necessary. The engine is in the front under the hood, the spare wheel is somewhere in the back and I know where the exhaust is. Other than that, my knowledge is very limited.

With my boyfriend out of town and my time relatively limited, I need to find some or other guide to help me. A guide for people who knows nothing about cars, something written for dummies, a buyers guide for second hand cars.

Obviously, the best place I look for this ‘Used car buyers guide for dummies’ is on the Internet. I, of course, find quite a few irrelevant results that just show me lists of car dealers.

I stumbled across a very in-depth used car buyers guide that gives you twelve different things to look out for when buying a car. I had to read it twice to understand everything, but eventually I got the hang of it.

They give some helpful advice regarding the purchase of the used car, registration and documentation help, and some other useful information - mentioning things like the “Vehicle Identification Number” and where you need to look for it!

Furthermore the buyers guide supplied tips on what to look out for when they are viewing a second hand or used car. They give little tidbits to look out for when you start-up the engine. Apparently, when you test-drive the car, you should drive it at various speeds - this will give you an indication of the condition of the engine.

The bodywork of the used car must be inspected and you should look out for any accident damage to the car. Make sure to check out the interior and the upholstery- lift seat covers to see if the seller isn’t just hiding damaged seats!

Half of these things I would have never even thought to look at! Other tips include information about the gearbox and clutch, brakes and suspension, radiator and cooling system, as well as more general things like steering and tires.

I must say, after reading this guide, I will definitely be able to pick out my new purchase with more confidence! For those other dummies out there that know nothing about what to look out for when buying a second hand or used car- get yourself a buyers guide! It really does help.