When it comes to buying a used car, there are several things you need to check before you commit.
This might be different depending on whether you buy privately or through a dealer.
Take a look at our used car checklist to find out what you should be checking before you buy.
V5 registration document (logbook)
If it’s a private sale, ask to see the V5 registration document.
Make sure it has a ‘DVL’ watermark, and the serial number is not between BG8229501 and BG9999030 or between BI2305501 to BI2800000. If it is, the V5C might be stolen.
If you decide to buy the car, you’ll need the green ‘new keeper’ slip from the registration document to tax it (road tax can’t be transferred).
MOT check
Before you look at a car, you can do an MOT check if you have the registration number.
This means you can find a car’s MOT history and previous mileage.
The MOT’s mileage record will give you an idea of what’s showing on the car’s dashboard.
Service history
Service history is often kept online and can be helpful to know if a car has been maintained well.
Under the bonnet
Check if it’s clean and dry under there.
Also, remove the oil filler cap. If anything looks like dark mayonnaise on the underside of the cap, it could suggest a potential engine problem.
Check the oil level too. If it’s too low, it could mean the engine is burning oil or it hasn't been well maintained.
Exterior condition
From the back and front of the car, look up and down on each side for bumps or damage.
Next, look closely at the gaps between panels for inconsistent or mismatched colours. This could indicate previous damage or repairs.
Wheels, wheel trims and tyres
Do they all match, and are they in good or acceptable condition with no excess damage? Check the spare wheel too.
Check the condition of the tyres at each wheel. To do this, all you need is a 20p coin. Insert it into the tread grooves of each tyre.
If the outer band of the 20p coin is hidden when it’s inserted, then the tread is likely to be above the legal limit. If the coin's outer band is visible, then the tyres might be illegal and unsafe.
Interior condition
Is it clean and does it smell okay?
Is the wear appropriate for the car's mileage, particularly in the driver’s seat and footwell?
Is anything broken or missing, like a parcel shelf?
Turn on the ignition to check the electrics
Do any warning lights come on the dashboard?
You should also push every switch to make sure everything works as it should, including the radio.
Finally, make sure the locks all work as they should.
Start the car
Does it start easily without any strange noises? Does the oil warning light go out as soon as the engine starts?
Next, press down the clutch – any noise when you press the pedal, or a high biting point could mean that repairs might be needed soon.
Finally, does the car move quickly into gear?
Test drive
Is the handbrake working well? Again, listen for any strange noises from the engine or suspension.
Check if the car pulls to one side when you brake, or if there’s any odd steering vibrations.
Making your decision
Take time assessing a car, don’t get rushed by the seller, and try to take the emotion out of your decision-making.
You can always pay for a car expert’s help if you’re not confident in what to look for when buying a used car.
Finally, if you have doubts about the car you’re looking at or even the seller, don’t be afraid to say no. There will always be another car for you!
Getting your used car on finance
While you should always carry out your own thorough checks, we’ll always do a quick background check on the car you want finance for if you get a hire purchase quote with us.
Read our guide on how to check a used car’s history.
