It is a point often overlooked, but lots of cars are subject to recalls. Of the 300 most common models on Britain’s roads, nearly 250 have had a recall. On average a used car will have three recalls and some have had up to 20.

Manufacturers only recall a car if it has a dangerous or expensive fault. So before buying a used car it’s a good idea to check for major recalls.

To check for a recall, simply make a note of the car’s VIN number (see VIN diagram). Then, contact the Vehicle and Operator Service Agency OR Contact the main dealer that sold the car OR download a buyers guide that includes recall information.

It is also sensible to look into what’s known as ‘service campaigns’ and warranty issues.

Service campaigns are updates made to the car when it comes in to a main dealer for a service. The owner of the car may not even be told that there has been some kind of update made. If a car has not been serviced at a main dealer recently, it may not have had one of these updates.

Where a common fault develops many manufacturers extend their warranty and pay for the repair. Quite often however, they only pay when the customers complain. If you buy a used car with the common fault and use an independent garage (which is financially the most sensible option) you may not know that the repair could be paid for by the manufacturer.