Young used car buyers urged to inspect potential purchases

Young adults buying a used car have been urged to inspect the vehicle before handing over their money by RAC Inspections.

The motoring body is backing the warning from the Trading Standards Institute (TSI) about potentially dangerous used cars and is calling on parents and guardians to be actively involved in the buying decision.

A recent undercover operation by the TSI and Hertfordshire police revealed that five out of eight second-hand lower-priced vehicles are not safe to be driven.

The RAC's own research supports this finding – three-quarters of the used cars it inspected had faults which would cause them to fail an MOT.

Nicola Johnson, RAC Inspections manager, says a mechanically-minded friend or family member can help young drivers pick a safe and suitable used car.

"Youngsters or first timers looking for a used car bargain are entering a minefield and are unlikely to have the right level of knowledge to know what to look for," she states.

RAC Inspections advises used car buyers to go through a checklist to help ensure their new vehicle it above board.

Among the tips, the body suggests researching the make and model, viewing the car during daytime at the dealership or owner's address and checking the bodywork, tyres, electrics and interior.

The RAC was founded in 1897 to develop motoring services.

It introduced uniformed patrols in 1901 and roadside emergency telephone boxes in 1912.

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