An astonishing one in five Brits doesn’t test drive a car before they buy it, research from Carmony.co.uk has revealed. Findings also show that more than a quarter of Brits have regretted buying a car soon after purchasing it, with almost 10% blaming the colour of their new motor for their dissatisfaction.

The research follows the report by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) which recently announced results from its study into the used car market. The OFT found that consumers were being let down by some used car dealers, urging that more needs to be done to ensure consumers are protected.

Research commissioned by leading used car website Carmony.co.uk delved into British car buying habits, and has revealed many Brits are intimidated by the buying process and have a tendency to act before they think. Over 75% admitted feeling out of their depth, with little or no confidence when making decisions about buying a car.

“Our research has revealed only a quarter of Brits feel confident with the car buying process and it’s clear that some consumers need help when they’re choosing a car,” commented Alan Hazelhurst at Carmony.co.uk.

“The used car market can be an intimidating place but all cars listed on Carmony.co.uk are manufacturer or dealer approved, giving potential buyers peace of mind. The OFT report supports our own findings, highlighting that often consumers need help to avoid the pitfalls of used car buying,” continued Alan Hazelhurst.

“That’s why at Carmony.co.uk we’ve created a free car buying guide to provide consumers with simple, easy to use, jargon-free tips to consider when choosing a car. We aim to take the mystery out of the whole car buying process.”

Some key top tips from the Carmony.co.uk car buying guide include:

• Decide on your priorities: kids & dogs, fast & furious, economically sound or environmentally friendly
• Use the internet to compare the price with prices of other similar cars
• Check the dealer’s credibility. Are they a member of a trade body?
• Make sure you test drive the car before you buy it. That includes checking that it’s big enough for child seats, dogs or to fit into the garage.
• Check the car’s mileage, ownership and service history
• Trust your instinct – if in doubt, think again!

Consumers can download the free guide from www.carmony.co.uk.