• HPI will check if a car has ever been stolen, the subject of a major insurance claim, or written off, if it has had its numberplates changed, if there is outstanding finance owed against it or if the mileage is genuine.
• The AA and RAC offer a similar service and can also carry out a mechanical inspection. Professional inspections start at around £80, but prices vary according to the type of car, and the number of components checked.

What's the secret of confident bargaining?

• Know what you should be paying. Check with car price guides such as Parker's or the Buying Used section of www.4car.co.uk - and deduct the estimated cost of any repairs that need doing.
• Remember, there are plenty of used cars around. If you don't like the deal, walk away.