BUYING a used car is an intimidating prospect for many consumers. The fear of dodgy deals and the fact that you could be buying someone else's problems make the hunt for honest value seem daunting.

Potential used car buyers should avoid side-of-the-road sales and go to SIMI dealers, buy a car that has undergone an AA Autocheck or failing that to have the vehicle professionally inspected before purchase. No reputable seller will object to an independent inspection.

Be careful to establish the background of the car; up to 70,000 secondhand cars were imported here last year. Always check documentation re ownership. Even when a car is in good condition, a proper inspection will identify any minor faults or problems which the garage can address before you buy.

Never buy a 'pig in a poke', as it very often turns out to be a serious mistake, but often a very expensive one and can even have safety-related consequences.

It is also important to check that there is no hire purchase owed on the vehicle; this can be queried with the Hire Purchase Information Centre at 01 2600905, which will check that no HP or leasing finance is outstanding on the vehicle; the fee is 15.

Many publications carry ads offering secondhand cars for sale.

Most are genuine but unfortunately there are still unscrupulous dealers posing as private sellers. If you decide to make contact, say that you are asking about 'the car for sale'. If he has to ask you which car then he is a dealer. Having blown his cover, steer clear of his car!

Never buy a car in the dark, as this easily conceals various blemishes and possibly even evidence of accident damage. A key fact that you want to be sure of is that the car has not been involved in an accident. Whether its from a private individual or from a dealer, ask the critical question, preferably in front of a witness . . . "Has the car ever been crashed or had any bodywork repairs carried out whatsoever?" The response given has significant legal implications.

However, the quality of used cars in Ireland has improved greatly in recent years. One of the reasons for this has been the introduction of the National Car Test in January 2000.

There is very good value to be found in the secondhand market. For every new car bought in Ireland, almost 2.5 secondhand ones are bought and most people are happy with the results.

You have to look out for the pitfalls, do the homework and remember the maxim caveat emptor . . . let the buyer beware.