What Car? advice

Our advice section has the answers to your motoring questions, whether you're buying, selling, or just looking to reduce your motoring bills. And you can even contact us for help with car-related problems

What is a plug-in hybrid and should you buy one?

These models can be a great first step into the world of electrified cars and have the potential to..

Claire Evans, Wed Jun 01 2016

How much is your car worth?

Whether you're looking for a trade-in or are just keen to get rid of your existing car for cash, it'..

Claire Evans, Wed Nov 30 2016

A guide to short-term car insurance

If you don't need a full 12 months' of cover a short-term policy may be the best option. Find out mo..

Claire Evans, Thu Jan 19 2017

What is a petrol particulate filter and how does it work?

Diesel cars have been fitted with particulate filters for years, and now petrol cars are getting the..

Claire Evans, Thu Aug 15 2019

Diesel particulate filters - everything you need to know

Your car's diesel particulate filter can be the cause of seriously hefty repair bills. We explain wh..

Claire Evans, Tue May 15 2018

Hire purchase (HP) explained - Car Finance Guide

There are lots of different ways of buying a new or used car. Here, we look at the pros and cons of..

Claire Evans, Thu Jul 04 2019

Catalytic converter theft - why is it so common?

Car owners urged to protect their vehicles as catalytic converter thefts soar, with criminals steali..

Claire Evans, Thu Oct 24 2019

Personal car loans explained - Car Finance Guide

There are lots of different ways of buying a new or used car. Here we look at the pros and cons of t..

Claire Evans, Fri Jul 05 2019

Car finance explained

From PCP to hire purchase, here’s everything you need to know about financing your next car

What Car? team, Wed Nov 11 2015

How long do points stay on your driving licence?

Everything you need to know about driving licence penalty points, including how long they stay on yo..

Darren Moss, Fri May 20 2016

Smart motorways: what to do if you break down

The rules on smart motorways are different from those on standard motorways. We explain what to do i..

Claire Evans, Wed Nov 08 2017

How to find your car's service history

If you've bought a used car that didn't come with a full service history you could increase its valu..

Claire Evans, Mon Nov 16 2015

Car security: what to do if your car is stolen

What should you do if you discover that your car has been stolen? There are a few simple steps you s..

Claire Evans, Tue Feb 23 2016

How to save money on your car insurance

From when to buy, to whether it's worth adding Mum to a young driver’s policy, we share our top tips..

Claire Evans, Mon Sep 25 2017

Payment, paperwork and avoiding scams

Finding a buyer for your car is one thing: making sure you complete the sale safely is another. Here..

Claire Evans, Mon Nov 16 2015

Euro 1 to Euro 6: how clean is my car?

All new cars must comply with European exhaust emissions standards, so what is the latest standard a..

Claire Evans, Fri Nov 17 2017

Top tips on running an electric car

Following a few simple rules can improve the efficiency of your electric car and prolong the life of..

George Hill, Sun Jun 05 2022

What is hypermiling?

With fuel prices at record levels, you might have heard the term 'hypermiling'. Here's how it can he..

Charlie Martin, Thu Apr 21 2022

Used car auctions - your complete guide

You can save hundreds by buying your next car at an auction. Our step-by-step guide tells you everyt..

Darren Moss, Mon Apr 11 2016

Every van eligible for the plug-in vehicle grant

The UK Government will give you up to £5000 to help cover the cost of a new electric van – here's ev..

Darren Moss, Wed Feb 02 2022

NEW REVIEWS: