I must admit that I am not an expert when it comes to cars. I know what I like and I can tell whether it drives well, but when it comes to understanding what is ticking below the bonnet, I am afraid that that is beyond my grasp.
That is why I always try to take a more knowledgeable friend or relative with me when I am choosing a second hand car, so that they can spot any obvious mistakes that I fail to notice. Failing that I have a checklist of points to watch out for written as an idiot's guide so that I can at least check the main potential faults.
I always check whether the battery is good or whether you are likely to have to call out The Battery Guys as, though not a serious fault in the car, it can cost a lot of money if you are not expecting it. If you can tell that the battery will have to be replaced soon then at least you can bargain on the price.
Tyres are another thing to watch out for – there is no point in buying a cheap as chips car if you are going to have to fork out the same again to replace the balding tyres.
Brakes are the most important as these can pose a real danger if they are not working properly, so if you have any doubt in your mind call in an expert.