Buying a car

I've been living in London for five years without a car, but due to family health concerns (along with public transport concerns), I am finally going to purchase a car. I have loads of experience with this from the States, but I've never done it here and I see there are many differences. I will be buying a used vehicle from a dealer, but I am hoping someone else who has been through this can provide advice. What should I watch out for? What questions should I ask? I've already been through the government's MOT checks, but I am sure there are more tools out there. Which used car site is best? Does anyone have history check recommendations?

Thanks in advance!

Be aware that cars can be written off and then still driven around by their owners. Then they can be sold and if you buy one it can be difficult to insure.  That’s pretty dodgy and unlikely to happen at a dealer.

I heard about a site that everyone is using where you specify the exact car you want and dealers who have it send you offers. Can’t remember the name but it’s supposed to be a game changer.

Auto trader is also a good site.  Don’t be afraid to travel to buy when you find the right car.

Don't be afraid to haggle.

Thanks everyone. I know there are various insurance categories that are problematic and have excluded them from my search. They don't seem too keen to haggle, even though I am offering to pay cash. It's probably better for them if I don't, but we'll see if I have to do it for a short time and then can pay it all off.

Go in on the last day of the month, offer a ridiculously low amount in cash and then start walking to the door.  Then they’ll haggle.  Be ready to leave without a car, there will always be another one. 

Go in on the last day of the month, offer a ridiculously low amount in cash and then start walking to the door.  Then they’ll haggle.  Be ready to leave without a car, there will always be another one. 

That's just like in the States!