Pre-Purchase Used Car Checklist
A comprehensive guide to inspecting a used vehicle before you buy. Use this checklist to spot potential issues and make an informed decision.
Before You Visit
Research the vehicle
Look up common issues for the specific make and model. Check owner forums, reliability ratings, and typical repair costs. Know what problems are normal for the age and mileage.
Check MOT history online
Use MOTCompare to review the full MOT history. Look for patterns in advisories, note any dangerous or major failures, and check the mileage progression is consistent.
Verify market value
Compare prices for similar vehicles in your area. Check Autotrader, Auto Trader, and local dealers. Account for mileage, condition, and service history when comparing.
Arrange a pre-purchase inspection
Book an independent mechanic to inspect the car if you're serious. Budget £100-150 for a thorough check. This can save thousands by identifying hidden problems.
Documentation Check
V5C logbook present
Ensure the V5C is in the seller's name and matches their ID. The address should be current. Be wary if they claim it's "in the post" or give other excuses.
VIN verification
Match the VIN on the V5C with the number on the windscreen, driver's door pillar, and under the bonnet. Any mismatch is a major red flag for stolen or cloned vehicles.
Service history
Full service history adds value and peace of mind. Check for stamps from garages with dates and mileages. Digital service records are becoming common for newer vehicles.
MOT certificates
Request previous MOT certificates if available. These show the testing station and historical advisories. Compare with online records for consistency.
Receipts for major work
Look for evidence of timing belt changes, clutch replacements, and other expensive repairs. These receipts prove maintenance and can prevent future failures.
Exterior Inspection
Panel gaps and alignment
Check gaps between panels are even. Misaligned panels suggest previous accident damage or poor repair work. Run your hand along seams to feel for unevenness.
Paint condition
Look for mismatched paint colors in daylight. Overspray on rubber seals or windows indicates repainting. Use a magnet to check for filler in panels (it won't stick to plastic filler).
Rust and corrosion
Check wheel arches, door bottoms, sills, and around the windscreen. Surface rust can be treated, but structural rust is expensive and dangerous. Poke suspect areas gently with a screwdriver.
Tyres
Check tread depth across all tyres (legal minimum 1.6mm, but replace at 3mm). Look for uneven wear patterns suggesting alignment issues. Verify all tyres are the same brand if possible.
Glass and lights
Check for chips or cracks in windows. Test all lights including indicators, brake lights, and fog lights. Make sure headlights are clear, not cloudy.
Interior Inspection
Wear and tear consistency
Interior condition should match the mileage. Heavy wear on pedals, steering wheel, and gear knob on a low-mileage car suggests the odometer may have been tampered with.
Seats and upholstery
Check for rips, stains, and sagging. Test seat adjustments and heating if equipped. Inspect rear seats too as damage there is harder to repair or disguise.
Dashboard and electronics
Turn on the ignition without starting the engine. Watch for warning lights. Test radio, air conditioning, electric windows, and all switches. Everything should work smoothly.
Smell test
Musty or damp smells indicate water leaks or flood damage. Sweet smells could mean coolant leaks. Smoke odors are hard to remove completely and affect resale value.
Under the Bonnet
Fluid levels and condition
Check oil level and color (should be golden, not black). Look at coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Low or dirty fluids suggest poor maintenance.
Leaks and corrosion
Look underneath for oil or fluid puddles. Check hoses for cracks or swelling. Examine battery terminals for corrosion (white or blue powder). All connections should be tight and clean.
Belt condition
Inspect the serpentine belt for cracks or fraying. Ask when the timing belt was last changed (typically every 60,000-100,000 miles). Replacement costs £300-800.
Test Drive
Cold start
If possible, visit when the engine is cold. Note any difficulty starting or unusual smoke. Blue smoke suggests oil burning, white smoke could indicate head gasket problems.
Steering and handling
The car should drive straight without pulling. Steering should be responsive with no excessive play. Test at various speeds and on different road surfaces.
Brakes
Brakes should feel firm and responsive. No grinding, squealing, or vibration. Test at different speeds. The car should stop straight without pulling to one side.
Gearbox and clutch
Manual: Clutch should engage smoothly halfway through pedal travel. No crunching when changing gears. Automatic: Shifts should be smooth without jerking or delay.
Unusual noises
Listen for knocks, rattles, or whines. Note when they occur (acceleration, braking, turning). Turn off the radio to hear properly. Strange noises often mean expensive repairs.
Final Checks
HPI or vehicle history check
Run a history check to reveal outstanding finance, stolen status, or write-off history. Services like HPI, Experian, or RAC cost around £20 and could save you from buying a problem car.
Insurance quote
Get an insurance quote before committing. Some cars are expensive to insure even if they seem affordable. Check insurance groups (1-50, lower is cheaper).
Take photos
Document the condition with photos if you're visiting multiple cars. This helps you compare later and provides evidence of condition if problems arise after purchase.
Red Flags to Walk Away From
- Seller refuses test drive or inspection
- Missing V5C or documents
- VIN doesn't match paperwork
- Mileage inconsistent with MOT records
- Recent MOT failure on major items
- Evidence of poor repairs or accident damage
- Seller pressuring you to decide immediately
- Price significantly below market value
Ready to Check a Vehicle?
Use MOTCompare to view complete MOT history, mileage records, and advisory patterns before you visit.
Check MOT History