The Blog

MOT advisories are where a used car quietly admits what it's about to cost you. Here's how to tell normal wear from the notes that should send you walking.

The 1.6 TDCi Focus is cheap to tax, sips diesel and costs pennies to run — until the DPF, EGR or injector seals bite. Here's what to test on a cold start and a drive before you hand over any money.

A tailpipe can tell you more about a used car than a shiny valet ever will. Here's how to check DPF, AdBlue, catalytic converter and exhaust health before you hand over any money.

A private sale to a mate means no dealer protection and no Consumer Rights Act comeback. Here's how to check the car, get the paperwork right and handle problems without falling out.

The Mk7 Golf 1.6 TDI is a brilliant all-rounder, but its EA288 diesel has five known weak spots. Here's what fails, what it costs to fix, and how to spot trouble before you buy.

A replacement engine or gearbox can mean a well-sorted car with years left in it — or a bodged nightmare. Here's how to tell which one you're looking at before you part with your money.

Thinking about a Mk1 Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi? Here's what actually goes wrong, what it costs to fix in the UK, and the checks that separate a good one from a money pit.

Car supermarkets offer huge choice and fixed prices, but prep standards and warranties vary wildly. Here's how they really compare to franchised dealers and private sellers, and the checks to run before you sign.