Skip advert
Advertisement

Buyers' essential used tips

We team up with an RAC specialist to reveal eight essential tips for anyone buying a car second-hand

Everyone knows you need to check the clutch and brakes on a potential second-hand buy. But how do you actually do it? Identifying problem areas is the easy bit; examining them prop­erly is a job for the experts.

That’s why we’ve enlisted the help of John Gregory, a technical advisor at the RAC. He’s been with the breakdown firm for 25 years: first as a patrolman, then as a vehicle inspector. John takes us through eight essential checks for any used purchase.

Advertisement - Article continues below

See our RAC expert talk you through the used car checklist in video

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Omoda 5

Omoda 5

RRP £24,040Avg. savings £1,535 off RRP*Used from £18,795
MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £27,005Avg. savings £6,250 off RRP*Used from £9,800
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,310Avg. savings £2,657 off RRP*Used from £9,495
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £15,270Avg. savings £2,406 off RRP*Used from £8,745
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Ford Focus primed for sensational return, but as an SUV
Ford Focus exclusive image

Ford Focus primed for sensational return, but as an SUV

Could a new Ford Focus be ready to fight Europe’s biggest sellers such as the Volkswagen T-Roc and Nissan Qashqai?
News
4 Jun 2026
New Ford Fiesta ST confirmed as fast Fords are ‘non-negotiable’
Fiesta ST vs Polo GTI vs i20 N - Ford Fiesta ST cornering

New Ford Fiesta ST confirmed as fast Fords are ‘non-negotiable’

Fast Ford fans rejoice, as the top-brass confirm that ST and maybe even RS models are firmly part of the plan
News
7 Jun 2026
Kia Seltos review
Ellis Hyde with the Kia Seltos

Kia Seltos review

The new Kia Seltos will be a welcome addition to the brand's UK line-up, offering plenty of space and distinctive looks
In-depth reviews
5 Jun 2026