Compare the full ownership cost

Start with cars your licence lets you drive. Get an insurance quote before deciding that a cheap purchase price means the car is affordable. Include maintenance, tyres, tax, parking and likely repairs.

The running-cost tool compares editable fuel or electricity assumptions. It does not quote insurance or guarantee real-world consumption.

Check the vehicle, not just the advert

Use official MOT and recall services and consider an independent inspection. MOT history records test outcomes at particular dates; it does not guarantee current mechanical condition.

Check the seller’s details and the vehicle documents through appropriate official guidance. Driving Sorted does not infer ownership or keeper identity from a registration number.

Check where you will use it

Clean-air and low-emission rules vary by jurisdiction and vehicle. For an EV, check practical access to charging and the actual tariff, not just the nearest map marker.

Put this into practice

Use the related tool to compare your options or organise the next step.

Open the tool

Sources & further reading

Guidance reviewed 12 September 2026. Check the linked official service before booking, applying or making a contractual decision. Report a change.