Being a prestige car buyer can be a daunting task, especially if you're not familiar with your way under a car bonnet; however if you're armed with some information, this can help you choose the right car. This article will look at some important tips to consider when you're in the market for a used prestige car.

First of all decide on your budget - how much can you afford? Include the running cost of the car: a year's insurance, MoT, road tax, fuel consumption, servicing, an exhaust system, and the cost of four new tyres. This will give you a clear picture of how much the prestige car will really cost you.

Documentation - check all the documentation related to your chosen car. This normally includes the Registration Document (also known as V5 or log book), MoT certificate (on vehicles over 3 years old), and the service history.

Does everything tally? Check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) or chassis number on the car is the same as stipulated on the V5. Contact the previous registered keeper to confirm the car's history.

Clocking - look for signs of 'clocking' (a term used for reducing the mileage of a vehicle by turning back the odometer.) Look at the car's condition; is it in a poorer condition than you'd expect for the recorded mileage? Inspect the steering wheel, gearshift, seats and carpet on the driver's side for excessive wear 'n' tear.

Engine - what is the condition of the engine? Does it look too dirty? A really dirty engine may mean it has not been serviced for a long time. Too clean and it may have been steamed clean to mask any serious problems such as oil leaks. Check the oil - what is the colour? Very black oil could indicate it has not been serviced for a long time. A beige slightly foamy liquid under the oil cap could point to a head gasket problem.

Bodywork and tyres - look and touch the bodywork of the prestige car in clear daylight, as dark or wet conditions can hide some possible faults. The tyres, including the spare tyre, should have more than 2mm of tread, and the sidewalls should not be cracked and damaged. Uneven wear on the tyres could suggest steering, tracking or suspension problems.

Test drive - before you test drive the car, check it is has a valid tax date, a MoT certificate and you and the car are insured. Turn the engine on and check for black or blue smoke from the exhaust: blue smoke is caused by burning oil and indicates engine wear; black smoke is unburned fuel and has several possible causes. Drive the car on a range of roads for about 15 miles and listen carefully for rattles, creaks and banging noises. Pay attention to the steering and check for wandering and pulling when braking.

Colour of the car - it may seem an unusual point to raise, but it a valid point for a prestige car buyer. A car in the upper-medium prestige sector in metallic black will cost more than the same make and model of car in a 'boring' colour, such as white.

One of the last checks you should do before you decide to buy the prestige car is a car data check; this will show, for example, if there is outstanding finance owing on the car or whether it is registered with the police as stolen.

Buying a prestige car from a private seller can be cheaper than a car dealer, however buying a car from a reputable car dealer comes with several benefits as well as the added security of being legally entitled to expect that the car is of satisfactory quality, fit for its purpose, as described and is roadworthy.

If you're thinking of buying a prestige car then you've probably got one to sell. Iain Mutch are an independent motor vehicle brokerage specializing in Prestige and Specialist vehicles.

Visit prestige car buyers, www.IainMutch.co.uk, to sell your prestige car.