r/Glasgow Tools

Gumtree is a decent place to look for a low cost used car but Yes, definitely find someone who knows about cars and get them to accompany you. Private sales are pretty much sold as seen, so you don’t want to get stuck with a lemon.

Some basic tips would be, look for something with a full service history if poss as this is evidence that the car has been looked after and maintained well. And IMO if a car is clean inside, it’s a good indicator as to how it’s been treated in general. Tyres should be a decent brand and all matching (again the latter is mainly just a good indication that the car has been looked after)

Don’t be too concerned by mileage / age. You would be be better buying a 15 year old car with 90k on the clock and a full service history and 1 or 2 owners than a 12 year old car with 60k on the clock and no service history, being sold by someone who has only owned it for 3 months.

In your price range I would avoid french cars. The age range that would fall within your budget tend to suffer from electrical problems.

If the car has a timing belt then check if it’s been changed within the last few years. If not this will need replacing and will cost you a few hundred pounds.

Insurance and tax wise you would have to do that before you drive the car away. You could leave a small deposit and arrange to collect the car in a day or so once you have taxed (you will need the reference number from the registration documents) and insured the car.
Payment would be cash or a bank transfer.