Check that expensive servicing has been carried out.
From about 60,000 miles, many cars will need a major service. And for 'major' read 'expensive', which is why you'd rather not encounter it. A good example: the old-model Renault Megane. At 72,000 miles the seven-hour service will cost more than £1000 at a main dealer. It's because they need to change the cambelt and that requires major under-bonnet work. If the belt does snap it can badly damage the engine.
Buy at auction
Auctions can yield spectacular bargains. The trick is knowing what's being sold that day by BCA, Manheim or any of the smaller auction houses. All are geared up for private buyers, even if they don't necessarily seem that way. There's limited chance to check over the car - most likely an ex-fleet motor - but prices are low. The biggest problem is getting the car you want. Missing out or discovering the car looks completely different from the picture is a real pain, especially if you took a day off work.
