Used Car Buying Checklist

Buying a used car can be stressful. Follow this step-by-step checklist to ensure you don't miss anything important before handing over your money.

1. The Pre-Viewing Checks (Do this at home)

Before you even travel to see the car, you can eliminate bad options using data.

Run an AI Car Check: Enter the reg into AI Reg Check to review available MOT, mileage, and valuation information.
Check the asking price: Is the seller asking a fair price compared to market valuations?
Ask for the V5C logbook reference: If the seller won't provide it or seems evasive, be cautious.

2. The Document Check

When you arrive, ask to see the paperwork first. If the paperwork is wrong, the car is wrong.

The V5C Logbook: Does the VIN on the logbook match the VIN on the car's dashboard/door shut?
Service History: Check the stamps in the book or the digital printouts. Does the mileage increase logically between services?
Receipts: Are there receipts for major work like timing belts or clutches?

3. The Exterior Inspection

Always view cars in daylight, and ideally when it's dry (rain hides scratches).

Panel gaps: Are the gaps between the doors, bonnet, and wings even? Uneven gaps suggest poorly repaired crash damage.
Paint finish: Look down the side of the car. Does the paint look slightly different on one door? Is the texture "orange peely"?
Tyres: Do all four tyres have legal tread (at least 1.6mm, ideally 3mm+)? Are they matching brands, or cheap mixed budget tyres?

4. The Interior & Electrics

Warning lights: Turn the ignition on. Do all lights illuminate? Start the engine. Do they all go out?
Air conditioning: Does it actually blow cold, or does it "just need a re-gas" (which usually means a broken compressor)?
Smells: Does it smell of damp (leaking seals) or heavy air freshener (masking smoke/pets)?

5. The Test Drive

Cold start: Ensure the engine is cold when you start it. Listen for rattles or smoke.
Clutch/Gears: Does the clutch bite high? Do the gears crunch when shifting quickly?
Brakes: Does the car pull to one side when braking? Does the steering wheel vibrate?

6. The Final Verification

If you're happy with the physical car, consider a Full Vehicle History Check as one part of your due diligence. It may report available finance or write-off markers, but no result should be treated as proof that no relevant history exists; verify important details and resolve any concerns before buying.