Drivers in England with 'secondhand or used car' warned 'do not drive it'

Drivers renting out a used car or buying one secondhand have been warned "do not drive it". Millions of road users who have purchased or hired a car have been dealt the key warning from motorists and road and travel experts.

The fleet car industry watchdog, the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP), has warned used car buyers to think twice. Paul Hollick, Chairperson of the APF, warned that many motorists have reported problems with used cars previously used by rental firms.

He explained: "This was a subject recently raised by our Mega Fleets Committee and appears to be a wider problem across the AFP. Essentially, we're seeing hire vehicles being delivered to fleets that are not in a roadworthy condition.

READ MORE Met Office issue verdict on when heatwaves will hit UK in June and July

"While this has always happened occasionally, there is a perception that the condition of hire vehicles is becoming noticeably poorer, although it appears to be a situation that appears to be affecting some hire companies more often than others."

He advised: "Our advice to drivers experiencing problems of this type is first of all to ensure that you don't drive the vehicle and report it to the rental company. You then need to have serious conversations with the supplier and, if you are not satisfied with the answers, to look for new options."

You’re responsible for making sure your vehicle is always safe to drive (‘roadworthy’). It can be unsafe even if you have a current MOT certificate. The government warns: "You can be fined up to £2,500, be banned from driving and get 3 penalty points for driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition."

Every time you drive you should check the windscreen, windows and mirrors are clean, all lights work and the brakes work. Your vehicle’s handbook will tell you how often to check the engine oil and water level in the radiator or expansion tank as well as brake fluid level, battery and windscreen and rear window washer bottles - top up with windscreen washer fluid if necessary - and also tyres.