THE BMRB's latest Target Group Index (TGI) 2001 shows that, together with price, the single most important factor affecting used car buyers is reliability. The TGI looked at the factors that affected the most recent purchase of used cars. Topping the list at more than 33 per cent, respondents cited cost and reliability as the most important influencers. Lagging well behind came style/design, fuel consumption and last, comfort.

Tony Noakes, RAC head of inspections, said: "A used-car buyer is under pressure to make a quick decision, but if you do not get an inspection done, you could end up with a cash drain on wheels rather than a reliable and safe vehicle."

RAC offers two types of inspections, Essentials and Essentials Plus, which provide comprehensive visual examinations, road test and history check to see if the vehicle has been recorded as stolen, has any outstanding finance or has been written-off.

You can also get a vehicle examination 24 hours a day by using the RAC Motoring Services website at www.rac.co.uk