Buying from a dealer or a private seller
Your rights are different, and so is the price. A plain comparison to help you decide.
Buying from a dealer
Dealers must sell cars that are of satisfactory quality, as described and fit for purpose under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. If something goes wrong soon after you buy, you usually have a route to a repair, replacement or refund.
Prices tend to be higher because of preparation, warranties and overheads.
Buying privately
Private sellers must describe the car accurately and have the right to sell it, but you have fewer protections if it develops a fault. Prices are often lower.
Take someone with you, check the documents and MOT history, and never pay before you've seen the car.