Matthew's Journal

Some providers (AA and RAC spring to mind) offer to combine an HPI check with a mechanical inspection. This may be good value for money if you're unsure about your own ability to assess the car and/or it won't be freshly serviced and MOT'd, but needs to be handled with care to avoid annoying the dealer. (The good ones won't bat an eyelid, of course.)

When buying from a dealer, remember that in most cases you will need to add on the cost of a tax disc (the dealer will arrange the disc for you so you can drive away on completion day), and you probably won't get much petrol in the tank. The car will usually have a reasonably fresh MOT, and may be serviced (some dealers include this in the price, some don't - ask). You often get 3 or 6 months warranty (within a mileage limit), but this does vary a lot.