Second-hand car buyers should consider their finance options carefully when looking for a deal that will allow them to purchase a used set of wheels, it has been claimed.

A new report from Halifax Unsecured Personal Loans says that second-hand motor buyers should think about how much they can afford to pay each month before deciding on the term of their finance deal - as those who pay off their loan over a shorter period of time will end up paying less.

And you should also think carefully before taking out a product with a balloon payment at the end of the loan - as some people may not be able to afford this one-off sum at the end of the loan's term.

People should also ask to see a log book and the car's full service history, as doing so could guard against having to make claims on your car insurance policy shortly after acquiring your second-hand set of wheels, the study adds.

"It makes sense to take your time and choose the right used car, but buyers should also ensure they do the same when it comes to financing it," Neil Chandler, head of personal loans, commented.

"With a Halifax loan, customers do not need to make payments for the first three months, which will help when it comes to sorting out road tax and other expenses."

A recent police campaign in Tayside may help cut the number of car insurance claims in the area, it has been suggested.The force revealed it conducted a 24-hour crackdown on a variety of motoring offe...

Motorists keen to buy a vehicle that can help them protect the competitive deal they have secured on over-50s car insurance may be impressed with the Honda Accord's performance in a recent safety asse...

Thames Valley police stopped more than 550 motorists last week for a range of offences, including driving without car insurance.During the five-day initiative, officers worked with representatives fro...