Start with the basics before you travel
A good used-car purchase starts before you stand next to the vehicle. Read the advert carefully, compare the specification with similar cars and make a note of anything you want the seller to explain. Check the registration details supplied in the advert and review the MOT history so you can spot recurring advisories or gaps that deserve a question.
10 checks worth making
- Service history: look for regular maintenance and invoices where available.
- MOT history: pay attention to repeat advisories, not just the latest pass.
- Tyres: check tread depth, uneven wear and whether all four tyres are suitable for the car.
- Bodywork: inspect panels in good light for dents, paint differences, rust or poorly aligned gaps.
- Interior: make sure the wear roughly matches the mileage and age of the car.
- Warning lights: confirm dashboard lights illuminate at start-up and then go out as expected.
- Fluids and leaks: look underneath the car and around the engine bay for obvious leaks.
- Electrics: try windows, lights, climate control, infotainment and other major features.
- Paperwork: check the V5C details, service documents and seller identity carefully.
- Test drive: listen for unusual noises and check steering, braking, clutch or gearbox behaviour.
Use the test drive properly
Try the car on more than one type of road where possible. A short drive around a car park may not reveal vibration at speed, brake judder or gearbox behaviour once the car is warm. Make sure you are insured and have permission to drive the vehicle.
Compare, do not rush
Price matters, but so do condition, mileage, maintenance and specification. Two cars of the same age can represent very different value once those details are considered. Use Motavo to compare suitable cars side by side rather than judging a vehicle in isolation.
If something does not add up, ask
A clear seller should be able to explain the car's history and condition. If important information is missing, the answers are inconsistent or you simply do not feel comfortable, there will always be another car to consider.
