Find Cars For Sale

Before you view

Ask to see the V5C logbook — check the registered keeper's name and address match who you're dealing with.

Ask for the full MOT history (you can also check this yourself online with the registration number).

Ask for the service history — full, partial, or none — and any receipts for recent work.

Check the advert photos and mileage against what you're shown in person.

Exterior checks

Look along each panel gap — uneven gaps can suggest previous accident repair.

Check for paint colour or texture mismatches between panels in daylight.

Check tyre tread depth and even wear across all four tyres, including the spare.

Look underneath and around wheel arches and sills for rust or fresh underseal.

Check all lights, indicators and the number plate for damage.

Interior checks

Check seat, pedal and steering wheel wear against the stated mileage — heavy wear on low mileage is a red flag.

Test all electrics: windows, mirrors, air conditioning, infotainment, central locking.

Turn the ignition on and check for any warning lights that stay lit.

Check for damp smells, water stains, or mould, especially in the boot and under carpets.

Under the bonnet

Check oil level and colour — dark, gritty oil can suggest poor maintenance.

Check coolant, brake fluid and screen wash levels.

Look for any signs of leaks, fresh oil spots, or damp patches around hoses and gaskets.

Check drive belts for cracking or fraying.

Test drive

Ask to start the car from cold — it should start smoothly with no unusual smoke or noise.

Listen for knocks, rattles or grinding at different speeds and while turning.

Check the steering feels straight and doesn't pull to one side.

Test the brakes for smooth, even stopping without pulling or excessive vibration.

Try the car at motorway speed if possible, checking for vibration through the steering wheel.

Paperwork & history checks

Run an independent HPI-style vehicle history check for outstanding finance, write-offs or stolen markers.

Ask directly whether there's any outstanding finance on the car.

Check the number plate and VIN match what's on the V5C logbook.

Confirm the seller's name matches the V5C, and be cautious if they can't produce it at all.

Used car checklist