What Car? Q&A - Where's best place to buy a used car?

Q: I would like to buy a used Ford Focus for around £9000 as a replacement for my Mazda MX-5. Where would be the best place to get the best value for money, irrespective of budget? Also, is it best to buy for from a dealership to get a warranty?
Sarah Smith

A: If you have £9000, you should be able to buy a used version of the latest Focus.

There are plenty of cars at car supermarkets and online dealerships as well as franchised dealers, due to the massive number of ex-lease and fleet hire cars. You shouldn't be put off by the thought of buying an ex-lease car, as they are usually between six months and a year old and in almost-new condition. They can often provide the kind of excellent value you're looking for.

For the money, you should be able to find an 05-plate 1.6-litre petrol LX or Zetec five-door. If you're looking for a diesel, you might just get intro a 1.6-litre diesel if it has higher-than-average mileage.

A car as young as the one you'll be looking at will still be covered by much of its manufacturer warranty, but you can buy a used car from an approved used dealer, most of which come with a comprehensive 12-month warranty.

Alternatively, you can purchase a warranty retrospectively from a warranty provider such as Warranty Direct.