What is a Pre-Purchase Inspection and Do You Need One?
You’ve done your research and you think you’ve found the right vehicle, so a good next step is a pre-purchase inspection (PPI). But what is a pre-purchase inspection? And do yo... (16-01-2025)
Used cars for sale under £1,000
Whether you're a first-time car buyer, a student on a tight budget, or simply seeking an affordable car, we have a great selection that won't break the bank.
From manuals to automatics and petrol to diesel vehicles, with MOTORS you'll find an array of cheap, used cars under £1,000 from trusted dealers across the UK.
Ford, Fiesta
2003 (03) - 1.25 Finesse 3dr
40
Nissan, Qashqai
2007 (07) - 2.0 Tekna 4WD 5dr
53
Volkswagen, Beetle
2002 (02) - 1.6 3dr
4
Toyota, Auris
2008 (58) - 1.6 VVTi SR 5dr DAMAGED REPAIRABLE SALVAGE
7
Vauxhall, Astra
2008 (08) - 1.4i 16v SXi Sport Hatch 3dr
13
Ford, Galaxy
2010 (10) - 2.0 TDCi 140 Zetec 5dr Powershift
11
Vauxhall, Astra
2006 (56) - 1.3 CDTi 16V Life [90] 5dr
11
Citroen, Xsara Picasso
2005 - 2.0 HDi Desire 5-Door
1
MINI, Hatch
2003 (53) - 1.6 Cooper Hatchback 3dr Petrol Manual Euro 3 (115 ps)
10
Volvo, C30
2008 - 1.8 R DESIGN Sport 3-Door
7
Nissan, Micra
2002 - 1.0 16v Tempest 3-Door
19
Mitsubishi, Colt
2009 (09) - 1.5 CZC2 2dr
18
Toyota, Yaris
2000 (X) - 1.0 16v VVTi GS 5dr
7
Honda, Jazz
2007 (07) - 1.4 i-DSi Sport 5dr
9
Volkswagen, Passat
2007 (07) - 1.9 SE TDI 5dr
7
Before buying any car, there are some checks you should do to ensure the vehicle you are looking to purchase is safe and matches what is being advertised by the dealer.
Conduct some visual checks
Conducting visual checks is the first step you should take before purchasing a used car. This includes inspecting things like the paint and bodywork, checking the tyres and also examining the windscreen, windows and lights to ensure there isn't any damage and everything is in correct working order.
Also, don't be afraid to lift the bonnet and check the engine to ensure the internal components appear as they should.
Test drive the vehicle
Taking the car for a test drive will give you the opportunity to check that the vehicle is working as it should. As you drive the car, listen for any unusual noises whilst testing the clutch, brakes and acceleration. This is also a good opportunity to test additional features such as the heating, air conditioning, radio and infotainment system if the car has this.
Ask to see the car's documents
When you are viewing the vehicle, it is also a good idea to check the documents in person. This includes things such as the V5C document, MOT certificates, service history and the vehicle handbook. Inspecting these documents will highlight any issues the car has had and whether they have been rectified.
For further advice and guidance on things to consider before buying a used car, check out our used car buying checklist.
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Can you buy a reliable car for £1,000?
If you have a budget of £1,000 it is possible to buy a used car. However, the cost of the vehicle will reflect its current condition and cars at this price point will likely have high mileage and light or excessive damage. For that reason, it is important you conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle and its documents before making a purchase. You may notice cars listed for £1,000 are considered Category N or Category S, which means the vehicles have experienced some damage which will require an inspection before they are safe to drive.
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What is Category N?
Previously known as Category D, vehicles listed under Category N will have cosmetic or non-structural faults that will require an inspection from a professional garage before being safe to drive.
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What is a Category S?
Formally known as a Category C, Category S is used to describe cars that have structural damage. Cars in this category are considered to have more damage than those listed as Category N and will require repair from a professional garage to ensure the vehicle is safe to drive.
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What checks should I do before buying a car for under £1,000?
Before buying any used car you should thoroughly inspect the vehicle using a used car buying checklist. Inspecting components such as tyres, engines, brakes and exhausts, will help you to understand the current condition of the car and if it requires any inspections or work by a professional garage. It is also a good idea to test-drive the vehicle before purchasing it so you can be confident the vehicle works as expected. This also gives you the opportunity to ask any questions and raise any concerns you may have.
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