carluvo

Buying guides

Know more, buy better

Everything we'd tell a friend before they bought a used car — written by people who buy cars for a living, with nothing to sell you in the process.

Buying advice · 3 min read

Where to Buy: Franchised Dealer, Independent, Private or Auction?

An honest comparison of the ways to buy a used car in the UK — franchised dealers, independents, private sellers, driveway traders and auctions, and the protection each one gives you.

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Buying advice · 3 min read

The Paperwork Checklist: Every Document You Need to Buy a Car

Every document to ask for and bring when buying a used car in the UK — the V5C and its watermark, MOT certificates, service history, receipts, tax and insurance.

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Buying advice · 3 min read

How to Negotiate a Used Car Price (Without Being Awkward)

A practical UK guide to haggling for a used car — how to research the real market price, use faults as leverage, what to ask for instead of a discount, and when to walk away.

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Buying advice · 3 min read

How to Check a Used Car's History Before You Buy

The complete UK guide to HPI checks, MOT history, outstanding finance and mileage verification — everything to check before handing over money for a used car.

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Finance · 3 min read

Used Car Finance Explained: HP vs PCP vs Personal Loan

HP, PCP, personal loans and cash — how each way of paying for a used car actually works in the UK, what they cost, and how to choose the right one for you.

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Buying advice · 3 min read

What to Check When Viewing a Used Car: The 20-Minute Inspection

A practical checklist for viewing any used car in the UK — bodywork, tyres, fluids, interior, electronics and the test drive, in the order a professional would check them.

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Buying advice · 3 min read

Petrol, Diesel, Hybrid or Electric: Which Used Car Is Right for You?

An honest UK comparison of petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric used cars — running costs, reliability, ULEZ, and which fuel type suits your annual mileage and driving.

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Ownership · 2 min read

ULEZ and Clean Air Zones Explained: Will Your Next Car Be Charged?

Which used cars are exempt from London's ULEZ and the UK's Clean Air Zones, how to check any car before buying, and what the daily charges actually cost.

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Buying advice · 3 min read

Your Legal Rights When Buying a Used Car from a Dealer

The Consumer Rights Act 2015 explained for used car buyers — the 30-day right to reject, six-month rule, warranties, and what to do when something goes wrong.

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Read up, then come and see the cars

Every car we sell has already been through the checks these guides describe — and we'll happily show you the evidence.

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