When you’re ready to buy a used car in Ireland, you have two main options:
👉 buy privately from another driver, or
👉 buy from a registered dealership.
Both can offer good deals, but each comes with its own risks and benefits.
In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of buying privately vs buying from a dealership, so you can make the right decision for your next car purchase.
Buying a Car Privately
Buying directly from another person (via DoneDeal, Facebook Marketplace, or word-of-mouth) can sometimes mean lower prices — but it also carries higher risk.
✅ Advantages of Private Sales
- Cheaper upfront cost: Private sellers often price lower than dealers.
- Room for negotiation: You can usually haggle directly with the owner.
- No dealership overheads: You’re paying just for the car, not business costs.
❌ Disadvantages of Private Sales
- No warranty or comeback: Once you pay, the car is yours — even if it breaks down the next day.
- Higher risk of hidden problems: Clocked mileage, outstanding finance, or undisclosed damage.
- No mechanical inspection: You’ll need to pay for an independent check yourself.
- Cash-only sales: Most private sellers don’t offer finance or trade-ins.
🔗 Learn more about your rights when buying privately from Citizens Information.
Buying from a Dealership
Buying from a registered dealer offers peace of mind, legal protection, and often better overall value, even if the price is slightly higher.
✅ Advantages of Buying from a Dealer
- Warranty included: Reputable dealers (like TRB Car Sales) provide a warranty on all used vehicles.
- Fully history-checked cars: Dealers perform background checks to ensure the car isn’t stolen, clocked, or under finance.
- Finance options: Dealerships can arrange PCP or HP finance, spreading the cost over time.
- Trade-ins accepted: You can use your old car as part payment toward your new one.
- Consumer protection: Under Irish law, dealers must sell vehicles that are roadworthy and match their description.
❌ Possible Downsides
- Slightly higher upfront prices.
- Limited room for heavy negotiation.
- Some dealers may charge admin or delivery fees — always ask upfront.
Comparing Both Options
| Factor | Private Sale | Dealership |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Usually cheaper | Slightly higher |
| Warranty | ❌ None | ✅ Included |
| Finance Options | ❌ None | ✅ Available |
| Consumer Protection | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (legal rights) |
| Vehicle History Check | Optional (you must do it) | ✅ Provided |
| Trade-In Option | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Risk Level | ⚠️ Higher | ✅ Lower |
The Smart Choice for 2025 Buyers
If you’re confident checking a car yourself and happy to take on the risk, a private sale can save you money.
But if you value peace of mind, protection, and quality, buying from a trusted dealership is the clear winner.
At TRB Car Sales, every used car is:
✅ Fully history-checked
✅ NCT certified
✅ Covered by warranty
✅ Available with flexible finance options
Visit TRB Car Sales in Cork
Whether you’re upgrading your car or buying your first one, we’ll help you find the perfect fit — safely, honestly, and affordably.
📞 Contact TRB Car Sales today or browse our latest used cars on our website.
