Buying a used car is one of those milestones that feels both exciting and a little daunting—especially if you’ve just passed your driving test and can’t wait to enjoy your newfound freedom. Whether you’re still learning and thinking ahead, or a freshly qualified driver ready to get behind your own set of wheels, knowing how to pick the right car can save you money, stress, and a few mechanical nightmares.
At Oxon Driving Tuitions, we’ve seen many pupils take that thrilling leap from lessons to car ownership. We’ve also seen the pitfalls — from overpriced rust buckets to cars that looked spotless on the outside but hid expensive problems under the bonnet. This guide blends local know-how with practical motoring advice, so you can confidently make your first purchase.
1. Cast Your Net Wide—Don’t Just Visit the Nearest Dealer
If you only pop into your nearest used car dealer, you’re limiting yourself to whatever they have in stock. That might work if they happen to have your dream car, but in most cases, you’ll get a better deal by broadening your search.
- Search online — Websites like Autotrader let you filter by make, model, mileage, age, and more. Handy tools, but remember dealers pay to advertise there — costs often passed on to you.
- Look at alternative platforms—Facebook Marketplace and eBay can be treasure troves for affordable cars, though you’ll need to be extra thorough with your checks.
- Be willing to travel. If the deal’s right, driving a couple of hours to collect a car can save you hundreds of pounds.
Think of it like fishing in the Thames—the wider you cast your net, the better your chances of catching something worth keeping.
2. Dealer vs Private Sale Know the Difference
One of your first big decisions is whether to buy from a dealer or private seller.
Buying from a dealer in Oxfordshire often feels safer. The Consumer Rights Act protects you if the car develops a serious fault shortly after purchase, and many dealers offer a warranty and handle all the paperwork. But that peace of mind often comes at a higher price.
Buying privately is usually cheaper, but it’s riskier — you’re buying the car as seen. Once the money changes hands, the responsibility is yours.
A former pupil, Ellie from Abingdon, once spotted what seemed like a bargain Fiesta on Facebook. The photos looked perfect, but when she turned up, the dashboard was lit with warning lights like it was ready for Christmas. That quick check saved her from a costly mistake.
3. Do Your Homework Before You Even View the Car
Before arranging a viewing, run the registration through the DVLA vehicle check and MOT history service — both free online. You’ll be able to see:
- Whether the car is taxed and MOT’d
- Mileage history (watch for sudden drops suggesting tampering)
- Past MOT failures and advisories, which hint at ongoing issues
If the ad claims “full service history” but the MOT records tell another story, that’s your first red flag.
4. What to Check When You See the Car
When you arrive, keep your excitement in check and inspect the car like a professional:
- Bodywork — Look for rust, mismatched paint, dents, or bubbling under the paint.
- Tyres — Check tread depth and look for uneven wear.
- Interior — Make sure all switches, buttons, and the air con work.
- Test drive — Listen for knocks, squeaks, or grinding. Test the brakes, steering, and clutch feel.
A tip I give my pupils: think of the test drive like your driving test. You’re not just showing you can drive — you’re checking if the car “passes” your own set of standards.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Walk Away
In used car market, the best deals often get snapped up quickly — but that doesn’t mean you should rush. If a seller pushes you into deciding on the spot, treat it as a warning sign. There will always be another car. It’s far better to miss out on a “bargain” than to end up with a bad buy.
Final Word
Buying your first used car is exciting — but preparation is key. Do your research, inspect carefully, and trust your instincts. The right motor is out there, and when you find it, that first drive along Oxfordshire’s winding country lanes or past the dreaming spires will feel all the sweeter.