Used cars for sale under £500
Whether you're a first-time car buyer, a student on a tight budget, or simply seeking a cheap vehicle to get you from A to B, we have a great selection of used cars under ?500 that won't break the bank.
From manuals to automatics and petrol to diesel vehicles, with MOTORS you'll find an array of cheap used cars under ?500 from trusted dealers across the UK.
Skoda, Fabia
2008 (08) - 1.9 TDI PD 3 5dr *NEEDS MOT*
Volkswagen, Polo
2021 (70) - 1.0 EVO 80 Match 5dr
Ford, Fiesta
2008 - Zetec Climate 3-Door
Nissan, Qashqai
2016 (66) - 1.5 dCi N-Connecta 5dr
Vauxhall, Corsa
2007 (57) - 1.2i 16V Breeze 3dr
Citroen, C3
2010 (10) - 14 VTi 16V VTR+ 5dr
Mercedes-Benz, A-Class
2008 (08) - 1.5 A150 Classic 5dr
Vauxhall, Astra
2008 (08) - 1.6 16V Sport 2dr [115]
Volvo, XC60
2023 (23) - 2.0 B5P Plus Dark 5dr AWD Geartronic
Ford, Fiesta
2009 - Zetec Blue Edition 5-Door
Skoda, Octavia
2010 (10) - 1.6 TDI CR S 5dr
Peugeot, 3008
2013 (13) - 1.6 e-HDi 115 Active II 5dr EGC Automatic **Spare or Repair**
Volkswagen, Golf Plus
2010 (60) - 1.6 TDI 105 SE 5dr DSG
Volvo, XC40
2021 (71) - 2.0 B4P R DESIGN Pro 5dr Auto
Before buying any car, there are some checks you should do to ensure the vehicle you are looking to purchase is safe and matches what is being advertised by the dealer.
Conduct some visual checks
Conducting visual checks is the first step you should take before purchasing a used car. This includes inspecting things like the paint and bodywork, checking the tyres and also examining the windscreen, windows and lights to ensure there isn't any damage and everything is in correct working order.
Also, don't be afraid to lift the bonnet and check the engine to ensure the internal components appear as they should.
Test drive the vehicle
Taking the car for a test drive will give you the opportunity to check that the vehicle is working as it should. As you drive the car, listen for any unusual noises whilst testing the clutch, brakes and acceleration. This is also a good opportunity to test additional features such as the heating, air conditioning, radio and infotainment system if the car has this.
Ask to see the car's documents
When you are viewing the vehicle, it is also a good idea to check the documents in person. This includes things such as the V5C document, MOT certificates, service history and the vehicle handbook. Inspecting these documents will highlight any issues the car has had and whether they have been rectified.
For further advice and guidance on things to consider before buying a used car, check out our used car buying checklist.
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Can you buy a reliable car for £500?
It is possible to buy used cars with a budget of £500. However, it's important to note that cars at this price point will likely have high mileage as well as interior and exterior defects. You may notice cars listed for £500 are considered Category N or Category S, which means the vehicles have experienced some damage which will require an inspection before they are safe to drive.
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What is Category N?
Previously known as Category D, vehicles listed under Category N will have cosmetic or non-structural faults that will require an inspection from a professional garage before being safe to drive.
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What is a Category S?
Formally known as a Category C, Category S is used to describe cars that have structural damage. Cars in this category are considered to have more damage than those listed as Category N and they will require repair from a professional garage to ensure the vehicle is safe to drive.
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What checks should I do before buying a car for under £500?
Before buying any used car you should thoroughly inspect the vehicle using a used car buying checklist. Inspecting components such as tyres, engines, brakes and exhausts, will help you to understand the current condition of the car and if it requires any inspections or work by a professional garage. It is also a good idea to test-drive the vehicle before purchasing it so you can be confident the vehicle works as expected. This also gives you the opportunity to ask any questions and raise any concerns you may have.