• You have less legal come back than through a dealer. Cars advertised for private sale must be "as described" but that's about as far as the legal obligations go.
• The checks that a dealer is compelled to make by law aren't a benefit in a private sale. This can be expensive if you choose to go the full professional inspection route.
• You won't get a warranty.
• Part-exchanges are rarely considered, meaning you'll have to sell your old car yourself, or dispose of it at trade price to a dealer
  

As long as you make the right checks, buying a car privately can be more satisfying and financially rewarding than the dealer route - it just takes a little more work.

Private Buyer Hotline

Certain unscrupulous dealers may pretend to be private sellers to avoid their legal obligations and, in some cases, rid themselves of faulty or overpriced vehicles. It is our policy at Auto Trader not to accept private adverts from traders.

If, whilst looking for a vehicle in Auto Trader you experience a trader advertising as a private seller, please call us on 0845 345 6655 and we will take appropriate action.

For more information on car scams, visit our vehicle crime advice centre.