There comes a time at some point where we will need to look at buying our own car. For the first few years many young people will drive their parents’ cars, but as the need for their own set of wheels begins to set in place then they will need to look at buying their own car. Typically most people will not be spending vast amounts on their first car, invariably they will be looking for a cheap smaller car but just because it is your first you shouldn’t have to settle for a poor quality or run-down vehicle as your first car.

The first thing to look for is a car with a lower mileage, a low mileage can be more important than the age of the car in some cases. A low mileage will mean it hasn’t been driven as much and should mean that it’s working parts and engine is in better condition. It isn’t uncommon for some older cars to have low mileages as their owners may not have driven the car a lot or only ever made short trips to the shops, with an engine in good shape it will reduce the likelihood that you’ll need repairs.

As well as the engine having fewer miles on the clock you should check under the bonnet too, checking that the engine is clean and that all parts look to be in good working order is important. Ask to run the engine with the bonnet open to listen out for any knocks or strange noises that could imply there are problems developing.

Many people will have a car colour in mind and maybe even a model and brand they would like to buy, if you do your homework and check what the going rate for that car model is then you could have a good starting point to go from if you are going to be negotiating on a price from the seller.

The physical condition on both the inside and outside of the car is also important, again these factors can help you negotiate a lower price as it may cost you more money to repair any damage yourself. The interior will often be overlooked but considering that some cars can have impeccable interiors and others can have cuts, tears and staining from cigarette smoke there are a lot of factors to look out for after all you are going to be sat inside the car and want it to be nice to sit in.

Make sure you view and test drive a number of vehicles to ensure that you are one hundred percent happy that the car you choose is the right car for you.

As well as looking to buy used cars on sale by individual sellers there are many used car dealers who can help you make the right choice too.