Over a quarter of people who buy used cars choose vehicles aged between three and five years, yet these break down almost as frequently as older models, according to new research.

A third of used cars over three years old, which make up 90% of the used car market, will need some repair work within their first year with a new owner, said independent vehicle inspection provider Used Car Checks and warranty specialist Warranty Direct.

While cars over six years old report more failures than those under this age in the first six months of ownership, between six and 12 months the newer cars are just as likely to breakdown as their older counterparts.

Used car sales have increased by more than 10% year on year, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, with a 30% annual increase in used car sales in last March alone.

The increase in sales comes on the back of a boost in new car sales. The west European car market showed strong growth, with sales up 4.4% on September last year, the Association of European Car Manufacturers said today.

Yet those who buy privately risk being put of pocket in the first few months of ownership, said Used Car Checks.

"Dealers have an obligation to carry out a Pre-Delivery Inspection and, under EU law, are now responsible for the burden of proof for the first six months if anything goes wrong," said James Ruppert of Used Car Checks. "The private seller is under no such obligation and that's when things can go wrong."