WHEN it comes to buying a used car from a private seller, 90 per cent of us are 'Mad as a March Hare', according to AA Car Data Check.

"Over a million people every year buy a used car privately, and March is traditionally a time when many people think about changing their car, because of the new registrations coming in," says Chris Dobson from AA Car Data Check.

According to Office of Fair Trading advice, there are some good deals to be found buying privately, but it's important for consumers to protect themselves. AA research shows that up to one in three cars offered for sale has a hidden history that could affect its value, the legal position on who owns it, or in extreme cases, its safety.

Mr Dobson said: "Amazingly, only around 10 per cent of people buying privately check the car before they buy. This means that every week, around 20,000 people are taking a one in three gamble with a purchase that's often the second most important after their home."

With access to one of the biggest database operations in the country, the AA can quickly find out whether the car is stolen, has outstanding finance or is an insurance write off.

Call free on 0800 056 6000, or buy online at www.theaa.com. The comprehensive service costs from £34.99 for AA members, or £36.99 for non-members.