Buying a used car, especially for the first time, can be a daunting prospect. You will probably be spending a lot of money and will want to ensure that you get a good deal. Here are some steps that will help.

First, do your research on the seller before making a purchase.

If you’re buying from a trader, you need to check that it is trustworthy. They should be a member of a recognised trade organisation and, ideally, have their cars checked by an independent engineer or motoring organisation.

If something does go wrong, you will find it easier to resolve a dispute if they are signed up to the alternative dispute resolution scheme.

If you’re buying from an individual seller it is harder to check them out. But keep a copy of the advert you see for the vehicle so you can prove later what it said about the vehicle if the seller’s claims turned out to flawed.

Once you’ve chosen your seller, make sure that the car fits your needs and doesn’t have any problems. Ask yourself whether this is the right car for you.

Does it meet your needs and is it affordable to buy and to run? Then check the car’s history with DVLA’s free online vehicle checker and its MOT history on GOV.UK.

Once you have found what you think might be the right car, you will need to check it over and test drive it. Arrange to see the car in daylight so you can see how it looks – outside and inside - and how well it appears to have been kept. Take it for a drive of at least 30 minutes.

Pick a route that will allow you to drive on different types of road and at different speeds. Do some basic manoeuvres too to get a feel for the car. And check out the heating or air conditioning system and any satnav, music or other functions.

When you’re ready to buy, don’t be rushed. Check all the documentation is correct and when you make a purchase be sure that you get the original of the log book (the V5C registration certificate) and the valid MOT test document.

Hopefully, you will have no further problem. But if something does go wrong with a used car you have bought, you might have a legal right to a repair, the cost of a repair, or some or all of your money back.

What you are entitled to will depend on who you bought the car from, how you paid for it, how long you have had it, and the precise nature of the problems. There is advice on Citizens Advice’s website that will inform you of your rights and the next steps to take.

If you need help, Citizens Advice can offer you independent and confidential support. In St Albans, we can be reached on 01727 811118 from 10am to 4pm Monday to Thursday and 10am to 1pm on Friday.

Or you can call the Herts Adviceline on 0800 144 8848 between 10am and 9pm Monday to Wednesday, 10am and 8pm on Thursday and Friday and 10am and 4pm on Saturday.