Five questions you must ask when buying a second-hand car to avoid being ripped off – as demand for used vehicles soars

DRIVERS have been advised to ask five key questions when buying a used car to avoid being ripped off.

A global chip shortage is hindering the production of new cars, meaning second-hand motors are in high demand.

With the demand for used vehicles soaring, some dealerships are offering cash incentives for motorists' old cars.

However, drivers have been told to make sure they know as much as possible about the vehicle before buying.

Here are the five questions motorists should be asking before parting with their cash.

How many owners has the car had?

When it comes to purchasing a used car, it's always important to check out the history of ownership.

Sometimes, a long list of owners could mean that the car has some issues, but it does also depend on old the car is.

Does it have two keys present?

While it's not the law for a used car to come with two sets of keys, it is handy to have a spare.

If you only have one set and are unfortunate to lose them, it can be costly to have the keys replaced.

Does it have a full service history and is the V5 form present?

Buyers will want to know that the car they are purchasing has been looked after property.

The best way of knowing that is asking the dealership for a full service history.

Also, make sure to ask if the V5 form, or otherwise known as the V5C logbook, is present.

Any issues in how the car runs, and are all electrics working?

Dealerships have to let a buyer know if there is any faults with the used car they are looking at buying.

A purchase of a used car with a dealer is covered under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 meaning you have the right to ask for a refund in the first 30 days after the purchase if the car isn't "as described".

Why they are selling the car and how long they've had it?

If someone is privately selling a car, make sure to ask additional questions to avoid being scammed.

Check how long they've had the car for and why they are selling it.