I'm going to look at a car this weekend for the misses and was hoping some of the more experienced member in buying cars could give me some pointers on how the secure a good deal?

The car has been advertised fairly locally for over a month now so I feel there is a deal to be done but what's the best way to secure a good price?

Hints, tips etc would be much appreciated.

Not my scene I'm afraid - I'd say Bamford and Xn would be your best bets as they are always changing cars!

I would check this car out thoroughly - the fact that its been advertised for a month with no takers could mean there is something wrong in car or price.

As to negotiating.
- Know the ball park price for similar cars
- Note all the weak points making sure you've brought them to the attention of the seller.
- Ask the price (you know what it says in the advert but listen for hesitancy from the seller)
- Be friendly and direct people prefer to sell to friendly people
- Ask what's the best price they can give it to you for.

Don't attempt to completely screw them over. A good deal is where you're both happy.

If I were you I'd do one of those registration number checks to make sure it isn't a repaired write off or stolen or something.

Sunsurfer has a good point - a month is a while, so just be sure there's nothing dodgy.

Look on eBay, AutoTrader, Exchange and Mart etc etc for other prices.

Ask to see FSH etc, and ask about recent services/repairs/modifications etc.

Basically use your common sense... if you think something is up, either check it out and make sure it's nothing to worry about, or just leave it if it's too big a problem.

Oh, and don't haggle too much too quickly.

Out of interest, what is the car you're gonna be looking at?? Maybe some people have some other opinions on it