by Al Shield

Created on: October 30, 2009

A great looking used car is like a supermodel - sure it turns heads, but without any information on the background, you could have a completely volatile diva on your hands quicker than you can say 'but sure it looks great!'. And with some many makes, models and conditions of cars flooding the market every day - how do you avoid a one way trip to hidden expense city? By doing something you hated way back in your glory days of high school: your homework.

It's imperative that before you go shopping, you sit down and argue with yourself over exactly what you need in a car, more than what you want. We all want a Blazing Red Lamborghini with scissor doors - but the Lambo's out if you want low petrol bills, a place to put shopping, if you have kids or aren't a billionaire. That seems like most of the world currently on last check. If you're a calm driver, a turbo or supercharged model won't be your thing. Two door cars don't sit well with kids. High mileage and no mechanical knowledge will get you into trouble. Imports and cheap insurance aren't friends. V8's don't work well with petrol budgets. You get the picture. Write down what you need and then select cars that fit your criteria. Now I know this is going to hurt, but eliminate anything you can't afford. Be realistic and choose cars you can afford. Remember, it's more than just repayments - there's servicing, tyres, insurance, registration - it all adds up. If you can only afford a couple of those things, it's time to wave goodbye to your selection.

Once you have a picture in your mind of what you're after, research the value of it. If you don't know the market worth going into a sale then strap yourself in for a definate ride because someone's about to take you for a spin. Search the internet, read up in your local classifieds - what are most of these models going for? Unless it's truly a superb example, don't stray too far from the average price. And if it's ridiculously lower than market value, buyer beware. There's a fair chance something is not right with your bargain. While you're there, read up on common problems you might face as an owner - there's plenty of internet forums for a wide range of models to read up on. These are contributed to by owners - they own it, they've been through it, they know it first hand. Knowledge is power.

When looking over a car, spend some time giving it a real going over. A cursory glance in the engine bay won't reveal anything obvious, neither will a quick trip in it around

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