Online and classified ads - the best places to buy a used car

People in the market for a motor should try online and classified ads.

Purchasing a car can be a thrilling experience - especially for young drivers eager to get behind the wheel and hit the road for the first time.

Yet the fun can be taken out of the process when the reality of actually searching for a motor begins to kick in.

Motorists want to get the coolest set of four wheels they can find, yet in these times of economic hardship and uncertainty, splashing out on an expensive vehicle may not be the wisest move.

This, however, could be where used cars come into the picture.

These engines are not likely to break the bank but can offer the same driving experience and reliability brand new motors promise.

And according to Rik Paul of Consumer Reports, second-hand motors are becoming increasingly popular among buyers today.

The expert claimed: "People are looking for value now … and used cars, especially late-model used cars, are better value than new cars."

So, if a driver wants to get his hands on a decent motor without over-stretching his or her budget, a second-hand vehicle could be the right move to make.

But where to look for these vehicles poses the next problem.

Luckily, the internet and classified ads can provide the solution for this conundrum.

Unlike being pressured and hassled into a purchase, these routes allow potential buyers to ponder their position before parting with their money - and according to Courtney Hansen of the Calgary Herald, this more relaxed mode of searching can prove less stressful.

The specialist observed: "When beginning to look for a car, give yourself some time. In fact, the more time you give yourself, the better the chance you have at scoring the right car at the right price."

And it seems many people have already started to discover the benefits looking for a car online can bring.

According to a recent survey, more than 5,000 women noted their decisions when choosing a motor were largely swayed by female automotive websites.

Moreover, the rest of those questioned cited the portals of car companies as their second port of call, The Satellite reports.

Juliet Potter, founder of Autochic, commented: "One of the reasons I launched the first car website for women more than ten years ago was due to the fact my research showed women were heading online to research their next new car."

For those without access to the internet, however, the local classified paper can provide them with all the tools they need to be confident when searching for a car that is going to meet their driving requirements.

The publications typically provide extremely detailed lists of the motors that can suit a person's price range and enable them to make the best decisions when selecting a car that they will be proud to drive around town in.

So, there you have it. In these times of economic turbulence, forking out on a pricey motor can prove a hazardous error in the long-term.

With this in mind, opting for a used car could be the best bet for those drivers eager to get behind the wheel but less enthusiastic to part with wads of cash.

And with the internet and local classified ads at their disposal, car buyers have all the tools they need to make sure they drive away in a motor that is sleek, stylish - and above all - cost-effective.