Those buying a second-hand car should bear in mind some important tips to avoid disappointment.

There are four standard checks which all buyers should make before committing to a purchase, according to a helpful hints article in the Times Online.

Starting with the interior, check to see if all the switches and lights work, and make sure it is dry, if not there may be a leak.

Check for dents, scratches and rust on the bodywork, making sure to take a close look and keep an eye out for areas that have been re-sprayed.

Don’t forget to inspect the boot and pull back rubber seals in case they are hiding rust or other forms of deterioration in the bodywork.

The article also advises to run the engine and test if the exhaust is smoke free once it’s warm, otherwise there may be a problem.

Finally, always take the car for a test drive and make sure to properly test the steering, breaks and general handling.

Data from Experian Automotive revealed the best-selling used car was the Ford Fiesta.

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