Question 1

When is the best time to buy a car?

Accepted Answer

New plate registrations are in March and September every year, so expect plenty of activity around those months as car buyers look to sell their old cars and dealerships unveil their new stock. 
But really, there’s no wrong time to buy a car. Great deals are listed daily, and you could find the car of your dreams at any moment – just save a search on AutoTrader and we’ll alert you as soon as your dream car is listed on our site.

Question 2

Should I buy an electric car?

Accepted Answer

The electric car market is starting to boom. There’s more choice than ever before, better tech, improved batteries and charging times, and a healthier infrastructure. With more used electric cars entering the market, EVs are becoming more affordable to more buyers too. Electric cars might not be right for everyone right now, but with everything from electric city cars to electric SUVs now being released, it’s well worth taking a look before you buy your next car. Electric cars produce fewer emissions and also tend to be cheap to run – charging an electric car from home costs much less than a tank of petrol, and then there are the savings you’ll make on road tax and servicing. AutoTrader have more electric cars listed than any other site, so if you think you’re ready to make the switch or want to learn more, head to our electric car hub.

Question 3

Should I buy a new car?

Accepted Answer

We all dream of that brand-new car on the driveway and, with some great finance deals and lease deals available on leading make models, that dream could be in reach. Getting behind the wheel of a brand-new car can get you the latest tech, a full manufacturer warranty and better fuel efficiency, amongst many other perks. New cars might not be affordable for everyone (always budget properly and make sure you can afford a car before you commit), but they’re more accessible than you might think. Shop brand-new releases and compare monthly or outright costs on AutoTrader.

Question 4

Can I buy a car online?

Accepted Answer

Buying online is booming, and you can now get a brand-new car delivered to your door in all its glory. Just look for participating dealerships on AutoTrader, find your dream car and arrange your delivery date when you’re ready. We’re working to keep you safe and secure when shopping online and, with AutoTrader, you can do more online – from finding that dream car to financing it. Learn more about buying a car online.

Question 5

Are used cars reliable?

Accepted Answer

The UK’s used car market is massive, and so it’s worth doing your research before you buy. We’d encourage used car buyers to get a vehicle history check so they can be sure the car they’re buying is as advertised. It’s the easiest way to avoid a nasty surprise. Check our expert review to see how cars scored for reliability, safety and comfort (amongst other key areas), and take the car for a test drive to make sure it’s right for you. Used cars listed on AutoTrader have to pass a five-point check, so you can shop in confidence knowing they aren’t written off, stolen, scrapped, imported or exported. Learn more about used cars on AutoTrader.

Question 6

How can I sell my car?

Accepted Answer

If you choose to sell your car through Auto Trader, you have three easy options: 1. Sell your car for cash using Instant Offer. We’ll buy your car and pick it up from your driveway within 48 hours. No hassle – it’s the fastest way to sell your car. 2. Part-exchange your car. Just find a participating dealer and trade your old car in against a brand-new one. 3. Create an advert and sell it yourself. You can list your pride and joy on AutoTrader in three simple steps. Private sales are a great way to get a good price, and the size of our audience means you’ll get your car in front of more buyers than on any other site. Learn more about selling your car.

Question 7

Can I win a car for free?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Enter our monthly electric car giveaway for your chance to win a brand-new electric car. No strings, no entry fees - just a free electric car up for grabs every month.

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Hatchback cars

SUV cars

Estate cars

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Save£2,700

Renault Captur 1.3 TCe Iconic (s/s) 5dr

Save£2,000

KIA Picanto 1.0 MPi 1 (s/s) 5dr

Save£300

Fiat 500 1.0 70hp Mild Hybrid Dolcevita 3dr

Save£250

Dacia Sandero 1.0 SCe Essential (s/s) 5dr

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addWhen is the best time to buy a car?

addShould I buy an electric car?

addShould I buy a new car?

addCan I buy a car online?

addAre used cars reliable?

addHow can I sell my car?

addCan I win a car for free?