One-in-five don't check if car has been crashed before buying

While the vast majority purchased their used car from a car dealership or garage, almost a quarter bought from a private seller.

People are taking increased risks when buying used cars as one-in-five don't carry out any checks before purchase — including whether the car has been crashed.

Almost half of consumers have bought a used car in the last five years but less than half of those checked if the vehicle had been in an accident.