Best Used Car Websites in The UK: Guide to Buying Safely Online

Find the best used car websites in the UK. Compare prices, avoid scams, buy safely, and discover trusted platforms for second-hand cars.

Buying a used car in the UK has never been easier. Thanks to powerful online marketplaces, buyers can compare thousands of vehicles, check prices, read reviews, and even arrange finance or home delivery—all from their laptop or mobile phone. Whether you’re searching for a budget-friendly hatchback, a reliable family SUV, or a luxury vehicle at a reduced price, the right website can save you time and money.

In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore the best used car websites in the UK, explain what makes each platform unique, share tips for buying safely, and recommend useful Amazon car products (with direct buy links).


Best used car websites in the UK for buying second-hand cars online

Why Use Online Used Car Websites in the UK?

Online car marketplaces have replaced newspaper ads and physical-only dealerships for many buyers. Here’s why they’re so popular:

  • ✅ Access to hundreds of thousands of listings
  • ✅ Compare prices across the UK instantly
  • ✅ Filters for make, model, mileage, fuel type, and price
  • ✅ Vehicle history checks and dealer reviews
  • ✅ Finance, warranty, and delivery options

With so many choices, selecting the right platform is key.


1. Auto Trader UK – The Market Leader

Website: https://www.autotrader.co.uk

Auto Trader is the largest and most trusted used car website in the UK. It features listings from both private sellers and approved dealerships.

Key Features

  • Over 400,000 used cars available
  • Advanced search filters
  • Price indicator showing Great / Fair / High price
  • Free basic vehicle checks
  • Trusted dealer ratings

Best For

✔ First-time buyers
✔ Comparing prices nationwide
✔ Finding both budget and premium cars


2. Motors.co.uk – Simple and Reliable

Website: https://www.motors.co.uk

Motors.co.uk is a well-established UK car marketplace focused mainly on dealer listings, ensuring higher quality and reliability.

Key Features

  • Clean and user-friendly interface
  • Dealer-focused listings
  • Useful buying guides and advice
  • Location-based car search

Best For

✔ Buyers who prefer dealer-approved cars
✔ Those who want a simpler browsing experience


3. CarGurus UK – Best for Price Transparency

Website: https://www.cargurus.co.uk

CarGurus stands out for its price analysis technology, helping buyers spot real bargains instantly.

Key Features

  • Instant deal ratings (Great, Good, Fair, Overpriced)
  • Historical price trends
  • Dealer reputation scores
  • Email alerts for price drops

Best For

✔ Bargain hunters
✔ Buyers who care about value for money


4. Gumtree Cars – Local & Private Sellers

Website: https://www.gumtree.com/cars

Gumtree is ideal if you’re looking for local deals or private sellers, often at lower prices than dealerships.

Key Features

  • Large number of private listings
  • Local search by postcode
  • Negotiation-friendly prices
  • Wide variety of older and budget cars

Best For

✔ Cheap used cars
✔ Buyers comfortable dealing directly with sellers

⚠ Tip: Always meet in person and verify documents carefully.


5. Facebook Marketplace – Growing Fast in the UK

Platform: Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace has become a popular option for buying used cars locally, especially among younger buyers.

Key Features

  • Direct chat with sellers
  • Strong local reach
  • Often cheaper prices
  • Seller profiles visible

Best For

✔ Local deals
✔ Quick communication with sellers

⚠ Tip: Avoid sending deposits before viewing the car.


6. Cazoo – Buy a Used Car Completely Online

Website: https://www.cazoo.co.uk

Cazoo offers a modern, online-only car buying experience, similar to online shopping.

Key Features

  • 7-day money-back guarantee
  • Home delivery available
  • Thoroughly inspected cars
  • Finance options included

Best For

✔ Buyers who want zero hassle
✔ Online-first shoppers


7. Arnold Clark – Trusted UK Dealership Network

Website: https://www.arnoldclark.com

Arnold Clark is one of the UK’s largest car dealer groups with a strong online presence.

Key Features

  • Dealer-backed warranties
  • Click & Collect
  • Huge stock across the UK
  • Service history transparency

Best For

✔ Buyers who value trust and warranty


How to Choose the Best Used Car Website

When selecting a platform, consider:

  • 🔍 Number of listings
  • 💷 Price transparency
  • Dealer reviews
  • 🔧 Vehicle history checks
  • 🚗 Delivery and warranty options

Often, the best approach is to compare 2–3 websites before making a final decision.


If you own a car dealership or garage, you can easily recruit staff using PostJob.co.uk, the best free job posting site in the UK for automotive businesses.

Amazon Products for Used Car Buyers (UK)

Buying a used car doesn’t end at purchase. These useful Amazon products help you inspect, maintain, and protect your vehicle.

1. OBD2 Car Diagnostic Scanner

Check engine fault codes before buying.

👉 Buy on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01G5EA74I?tag=ikashem0a-20


2. Digital Tyre Pressure Gauge

Ensure tyres are safe and fuel-efficient.

👉 Buy on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07D9B5D5H?tag=ikashem0a-20


3. Car Jump Starter Power Bank

Essential for older used cars.

👉 Buy on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09MZ7JZ4R?tag=ikashem0a-20


4. Dash Cam (Front & Rear)

Protect yourself with recorded evidence.

👉 Buy on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09KT4M8ZJ?tag=ikashem0a-20


5. Car Cleaning & Detailing Kit

Make your used car look brand new.

👉 Buy on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08P4Q5Q5B?tag=ikashem0a-20


Tips for Buying a Used Car Safely in the UK

  • ✔ Always check MOT history online
  • ✔ Match VIN number with documents
  • ✔ Take a test drive
  • ✔ Inspect for accident damage
  • ✔ Avoid deals that seem too good to be true

Using a trusted website reduces risk significantly.


Hiring in the Automotive Industry? Use PostJob.co.uk

If you run a car dealership, garage, car wash, or vehicle rental business, finding the right staff is just as important as selling cars.

PostJob.co.uk is the best free job posting site in the UK.

Why Choose PostJob.co.uk?

  • ✅ 100% free job posting
  • ✅ UK-focused job seekers
  • ✅ Ideal for mechanics, drivers, sales staff, and admin roles
  • ✅ Fast and easy job publishing

🔗 Visit now: https://postjob.co.uk/

Whether you’re hiring a car mechanic, sales executive, or delivery driver, PostJob.co.uk helps you connect with talent without expensive recruitment fees.


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Final Thoughts

The UK offers some of the best online used car platforms in Europe, making it easier than ever to find a reliable vehicle at the right price. Websites like Auto Trader, Motors.co.uk, CarGurus, and Cazoo cater to different buyer needs—from bargain hunters to convenience seekers.

Combine smart website choices with essential car tools from Amazon, follow safety tips, and you’ll enjoy a smooth used car buying experience.

And if your automotive business is growing, don’t forget to hire smarter and faster with PostJob.co.uk—the UK’s leading free job posting website.


FAQs – Best Used Car Websites in the UK

What is the safest used car website in the UK?

Auto Trader and Arnold Clark are considered among the safest due to dealer verification and vehicle checks.

Which site has the cheapest used cars?

Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace often have cheaper listings, especially from private sellers.

Can I buy a used car fully online in the UK?

Yes, platforms like Cazoo allow complete online purchase with home delivery.

Are dealer cars better than private sellers?

Dealers usually offer warranties and checks, while private sellers may offer lower prices.

Where can UK car businesses post jobs for free?

On PostJob.co.uk, the best free job posting site in the UK.


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