Contrary to popular belief, you don't simply strike it lucky when looking for a good used car. It takes patience, effort and a degree of knowledge on the part of the buyer to net a sound car, and at the right price.

They say that only fools rush in, and that's certainly true when buying used cars. Plan it like a military operation: draw up a list of cars you like and simply look at the first few just to get a feel of the model, what it's like to drive and common faults found, before starting the hunt in earnest. A wise owner also takes the time to enquire at main dealer the cost of certain repairs and spares, so as not to be shell-shocked the first time it's booked it at a garage…

Click the 10 links below in order to arm yourself with enough information and confidence to check out a used car - but remember that your most important allies are a clear head and time.

• Documents and Data
• First Impressions
• Rust and Stonechips
• Interior Trim
• Starting Up
• Engine Behaviour
• Clutch and Gearchange
• Suspension and Brakes
• Crash Damage
• General Tightness