If you're in the market for a used car it's a good idea to arm yourself with some buyer's guide tools before you set out into the somewhat murky world of second hand car buying. Below are some tips and ideas which should help you get it right.

Buying a used car can be risky yet so many of us do this regularly as many people either can't afford to buy a new car or find new cars a bit of a waste of money as they depreciate the moment they leave the forecourt. But if you arm yourself with some great advice and make sure you know what you want and look for, buying a used car can be a breeze and possible also bag you a bargain.

Used cars can be bought privately, through small and large car dealers or through approved schemes run by the dealerships themselves. If you go to a dealership they tend to mainly have the makes they also sell new while if you go to a used car dealer they usually have a wide variety of makes and models on offer although some dealers specialises in one type of car. Private sellers only tend to have one car to sell and if you're buying privately you probably found the car through and ad.

When buying a car make sure you have budgeted well and can afford to own the car you're buying. In addition to the price you pay you also have to insure, tax, MOT and service the car, as well as fuel it. Make sure you've budgeted for all this. Then make sure to do your homework in regards to what car you need and how much the car you want usually costs. Once at the dealer or seller check out the service history and the V5 vehicle document. Make sure all documents are in order and that the car has been serviced on a regular basis.

Then take the car for a test drive and check that everything works, including electrical components, lights and breaks. Also take a good look at the car and look for mismatched panels and colour variations as this can mean that the car has been in an accident.

If you're happy with what you see, the paper work and the test drive, haggle on price. Many sellers will have allowed for a bit of bargaining when they set the price. But remember your budget and don't feel pressured into buying something you feel isn't right.

Whether you're looking for used cars in Malvern or other areas always make sure the car you're buying feels right for you. If not, walk away as there will always be something similar available somewhere else.