Buying a second-hand car can be a frightening experience - but, if you know what to look for, you can avoid nasty surprises and even snag a deal.

So, on the premise of unwanted surprises and scoring a deal, here's what to look out for when buying a used car privately.

It's better to be safe rather than sorry so making sure the current owner has paid off the car is a must. At worst, a failure to identify any money owing on the car can make you liable for the debts. To check if a car has any money owing on it, a relatively simple option is to conduct a REVS check online at revscheck.com.au. All that's needed for this is the Vehicle Identification Number, the registration number and the engine number.

No matter how trustworthy the seller seems, being thorough when checking documents and paperwork to coincide with the vehicle is a must. First, make sure the person selling the car is the legitimate owner. You can do this by cross referencing their proof of identity documents with the car's registration papers. Secondly, requesting paperwork that shows the vehicle's service history and how well it has been maintained is essential. Ask for receipts that show the oil has been changed, tyres replaced, radiator flushed, wiper blades replaced and brake pads inspected. Some of these precautions might sound over the top but being thorough when checking documents can pay off.

As well as looking at the owner's paperwork of the car's history, doing online research about the particular make and model of the car and reading online reviews is useful. This helps you to gain a generic understanding of the car and anything you need to watch out for. In addition, compiling a list of relevant questions to ask the owner when inspecting the vehicle ensures you come prepared and shows you know your stuff.

Some questions you could ask include:

• Are they the original owners?
• How long have they owned the car?
• How often do they use the car?
• Has the car been in any accidents?

Getting the owners to back up their answers with relevant documentation is of course desirable.

Beyond just taking the car for a test drive around the block, getting it out in different road conditions allows you to get a better idea of how well it drives. Taking the vehicle on the freeway, over speed bumps and around a car park, will help give insight into the car's suspension, brakes and how smoothly it drives.

Don't forget to check that the heater and air conditioner, radio, locking system, brake lights and turn signals are all in working condition.

The final step is getting the car inspected by a trusted Melbourne mechanic. The car's history report will provide vital information about the car's past, however, having it inspected is the best way to learn about the car's present condition. Negotiating for the inspection fee to be included in the vehicles sale is always a good idea.

With these tips in mind, a strict budget, being patient and shopping around you can increase your chances of purchasing a reliable and hassle free second hand car!