Small car dealers, who typically sell the kind of car that the average UK car buyer buys for £7,000 - £8,000 are really struggling to find replacement stock at sensible prices.
While our price guide has not yet seen a significant rise in prices across the board, if this trend continues then the average motorist will be hit hard.
Anecdotally many independent dealers blame scrappage because it has encouraged their normal buyer to consider a main dealer offer, even if their car wasn’t old enough for the scrappage scheme. Especially where the manufacturer, such as Nissan, extended the discount deal to younger cars.
However, as a result of the 2009 new car sales being held by scrappage buyers for many years rather than traded after two or three as a ‘normal’ new car would be, the worst used car supply shortage is yet to come. The only way to minimise this is to buy the most common of cars – like these two:
Ford Focus
The family hatchback which is comfortable spacious and practical has been improved again. Post 2004 styling not as edgy as before but still looks good and it delivers on almost every level. Avoid the unrefined 1.6 diesels if you can.
Most economical: 1.6 TDCI
Best used buy: 1.8 P
UsedCarExpert.co.uk fault checks: 26
UsedCarExpert.co.uk price: A 2007 1.8 petrol with 26,000 average miles is yours for than £7,500. Estates and saloons are worth the same as hatchbacks.
Vauxhall Astra
This Astra was a major step forward with lots of clever technology. Strong engines, space and sharp handling make it a better alternative to the Focus. Build quality is up there with the Golf as is refinement.
Most economical: 1.7 CDTi
Best used buy: 1.8 petrol
UsedCarExpert.co.uk fault checks: 7
UsedCarExpert.co.uk price: A 2007 1.8 petrol with 26,000 average miles is yours for just less than £7,000. Estates are worth £500 less than hatchbacks.