Steering through the minefield of buying a used car

TRADING standards chiefs hope to put the brake on dodgy car dealers during National Consumer Week, which starts tomorrow (Friday, November 1).

The county trading standards department will be placing special emphasis on how to negotiate the minefield of buying a second-hand car, if buyers don’t know what they are doing, or where to go for professional advice. It can be even more difficult for first-time buyers. Trading standards says more complaints are made against the motor trade than any other.

County council cabinet member Lionel Barnard, who oversees trading standards, said: “A second-hand car that is not up to scratch and is littered with faults can be a danger to the driver and other road users.

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“It’s important the used car industry puts a brake on bad practices by dealers being up front with their customers about the condition of cars. That way, people can make an informed choice as to whether it is the car for them.”

During the week, trading standards officers will be visiting sixth-form colleges to talk to teenagers who may be planning to buy their first second-hand car. Advice guidance booklets on second-hand cars will also be available in many libraries.

Cllr Barnard advised anyone wondering how to find a trustworthy car sales firm to contact the Buy with Confidence Scheme, administered and run by trading standards.