With many car dealerships struggling to stay in business there are some fantastic bargains to be had. You may not be able to afford a brand new car, however you can find a previously owned car with low mileage, which is in immaculate condition and has an excellent ownership history at very affordable prices.

Many car dealerships have lowered their prices further still-making the choice of used cars within your price range even greater. This is all really positive news for anyone buying a previously owned car this year.

The advice to be cautious when looking to buy a car which has been previously owned cannot be emphasised strongly enough. Opt for a company which is well established and has a long history of selling quality cars. Their business has been built on their reputation of excellent service and satisfied customers. Those which have a repair service department are also a good option as they have other means of income during lean selling periods. A repair and services department will also save you time and energy looking for a reputable garage to have your car serviced or repaired in the future.

Another great advantage to buying from a reputable company is the possibility of having finance arranged. Hire purchase is ideal if you are looking to keep the car over a long period. With a low deposit and agreed repayment time-subject to acceptance and terms and conditions-you will have ownership at the end of the agreed repayment time. For those who change their car on a regular basis there is Personal Contract Purchase. This type of finance offers both a flexible deposit and flexible repayment terms over two to three years. There are other ways to have finance on a previously owned car, but unless you use a reputable car dealership these options may not be available to you.

There are hundreds of quality used cars available-spend time looking online to see the type of cars on offer within your price range. Alternatively use a car dealership and ask them for a current list of cars either by make and model or price. Remember it is a buyer's market at the moment-use this to your advantage and find a quality used car at a bargain price!

Buying privately may seem like a good way to save money-beware you will have little if any safeguards and rarely any chance for recourse should a problem arise once you have driven away. Sadly there are many cars advertised for sale which are stolen or un-roadworthy-your ‘bargain' may well turn into a nightmare in a very short time. Buying from a dealership will give you more consumer rights and safeguards. The dealership will want you to return year after year, as well as recommend them to your friends and family for their excellent sales and after-sales service. When buying used cars, play safe and choose your car from a used car main or franchised dealership.