A car is going to be one of the most expensive purchases that you ever make. You want to know that you’re getting value for money, so it’s important to shop smart when buying yourself a car. Consider the following questions before you make any decisions:

Do you want to buy a new or used car? It may be worth looking at both if you’re unsure. New cars will lose a lot of value, but there are plenty of good finance options now available so it might be worthwhile. It’ll save you having to worry about maintenance. That being said, many used cars can be bought for an excellent price and shouldn’t be overlooked.

What condition is the car in? Make sure that you can’t see any scratches or damage to the paintwork. If you’re buying a used car it may be worth asking a mechanic to check it over first.

Is the place you’re buying it from reliable? Buying a car privately might be a bit risky as individuals aren’t constrained by as many regulations as a garage.

Will the car be the right size for you? It might seem like a good idea to buy a little sports car now, but will you still feel the same in 3 years’ time? A car is a big investment and you need to consider longevity.

What will running costs be like? Check whether it is petrol or diesel and how many miles you should expect to get out of a tank.