USED car buyers can now rely on the RAC for guidance. A new service allows potential buyers to ask for a vehicle examination 24 hours a day by using the RAC Motoring Service website at www.rac.co.uk.

RAC's Report on Motoring 2001 found that the three main concerns for used car buyers were:

* Whether the vehicle had been in an accident.

* Correct mileage.

* Reliability.

Yet, only one in 10 people have a used car independently inspected or tested before purchase - so nine out of 10 people could find themselves driving a potential time bomb.

Two types of examination are available Ð Essential Plus, a 166-point vehicle check and a 10-15 mile road test; and Essentials, for customers with a basic knowledge of vehicle mechanics.

Both inspections provide:

* A comprehensive visual examination on the structural, mechanical and safety aspects of the vehicle.

* A road test to comment on the performance and handling of the vehicle.

* A history check to see if the vehicle has been recorded as stolen, has any outstanding finance or has been written-off.

Tony Noakes, RAC head of inspections, said: "A used car buyer is usually under pressure to make a quick decision but if youÕre not armed with all the facts and figures, you could end up with an unsafe or even a stolen vehicle.

"Asking for an RAC vehicle examination means that the used car you're thinking of buying has been looked over by someone with expert mechanical knowledge." Customers can order an inspection on the Internet at any time of day or night.