Slow Down Before You Hand Over the Keys

Buying a used car can be exciting, but it’s also one of those moments where caution pays off. A shiny bonnet and a smooth test drive don’t always tell the full story. Whether you’re buying privately, from a dealer, or online, taking half an hour to run through a few checks can mean the difference between a reliable motor and an expensive regret.

So, before you fall in love with the smell of polish and the promise of a bargain, take a closer look. Cars, like people, reveal a lot under good lighting.

1. Start with the Paperwork

Ask to see the V5C logbook; the registration document that proves ownership. Make sure the seller’s name and address match what’s on their ID, and that the vehicle identification number (VIN) matches what’s stamped on the car itself. If they can’t show you the V5C, walk away. It’s that simple.

Next, check the MOT history on GOV.UK. It’s free and will show you past results, mileage readings, and any advisories. Repeated issues like corrosion, worn tyres or brake problems tell you a lot about how the car’s been treated.

Finally, if the car’s under finance or stolen, you’ll want to know before you buy. Services like the HPI Check or AutoTrader history reports are worth the small fee for peace of mind.

2. Inspect the Bodywork and Paint

Walk around the car in daylight, ideally on a dry day. Check for colour mismatches, overspray or uneven gaps between panels; all possible signs of previous repairs. Rust around wheel arches, door sills or under the bonnet isn’t just cosmetic; it can spread quickly and lead to costly fixes.

Look at the tyres too. Uneven wear might hint at suspension or alignment problems. And while you’re there, check the tread depth; the legal minimum is 1.6mm, but anything below 3mm should be replaced soon.

3. Check the Interior for Clues

The cabin tells a quiet story. Worn seats, shiny steering wheels or broken switches can reveal more about a car’s life than a seller ever will. Make sure everything works; windows, lights, air conditioning, infotainment, even the cigarette lighter. Test the seat belts for smooth retraction and look for any warning lights on the dashboard that stay lit when the engine’s running.

And don’t ignore the smell. Damp or musty odours could mean water ingress, which is notoriously difficult to fix.

4. Listen During the Test Drive

A proper test drive is essential. Start the car from cold; some faults vanish once the engine warms up. Listen for knocking, whining, or uneven idling. Try all gears, check the clutch bite point, and pay attention to how the steering feels on full lock. Brakes should be firm and consistent, without pulling to one side.

If possible, drive on both urban and faster roads to see how the car behaves under different loads. A seller who refuses a test drive should set alarm bells ringing.

5. Look Beneath the Surface

Pop the bonnet and check the fluid levels; oil, coolant, brake fluid. Fresh oil should be amber or light brown, not black and sludgy. Low coolant or signs of white residue could suggest leaks or overheating issues. Under the car, look for oil drips or corrosion on the exhaust.

If you’re unsure, consider paying for a pre-purchase inspection by a professional mechanic or a service such as RAC Vehicle Inspections. A small fee now could save hundreds later.

6. Don’t Skip the Fine Print

When buying from a dealer, you’re protected under the Consumer Rights Act, which means the car must be of satisfactory quality and fit for purpose. Private sales, however, come with fewer guarantees; the rule there is “buyer beware.” Always get a written receipt stating the price, date, and that the vehicle is sold as seen, along with any agreed warranties.

7. Trust Your Gut

Sometimes, the best clue isn’t mechanical at all; it’s instinct. If the seller’s evasive, the story doesn’t add up, or you just feel uneasy, walk away. There will always be another car, but there’s only one of your hard-earned savings.

Useful UK Resources

• GOV.UK – Check MOT History
• HPI Check – Vehicle History Reports
• RAC – Pre-Purchase Car Inspections