Used car buying checklist

Before you view the car

1. Check the MOT history. See how the model compares in our MOT reliability study, then enter the registration on GOV.UK's MOT history service. Look for mileage at each test, fails, and advisories that repeat year after year. Our guide to MOT advisories explains the wording.
2. Check the mileage is believable. Readings should rise steadily. A drop between tests can mean the clock was changed. See is this mileage normal?
3. Check the age matches the plate. Use the number plate age checker. A private plate can hide the age.
4. Check the tax and MOT dates on GOV.UK's free vehicle enquiry service.
5. Check for safety recalls with the manufacturer or the GOV.UK recall service.
6. Check ULEZ and clean air zones if you live or drive in London, Birmingham, Bristol or a Scottish city. Use our ULEZ check.
7. Work out the running costs: car tax, fuel, insurance group and likely depreciation.

The paperwork checks

1. See the V5C logbook. The name and address should match the seller and the place you are viewing the car. Be wary of meeting in a car park.
2. Match the VIN. The VIN on the V5C must match the one on the car, usually at the base of the windscreen and in the door frame. The engine number should match too.
3. Run a history check from a paid provider for outstanding finance, write-off categories and stolen markers. These are the things the free checks cannot show.
4. Ask for service records and receipts for major work, such as a cambelt change.

Inspecting the car

• View in daylight and in dry weather, when paint and panel faults are easier to see.
• Look for uneven panel gaps and paint colour differences, signs of accident repairs.
• Check all four tyres for tread depth and even wear. Uneven wear can point to alignment or suspension problems. See tyre tread depth.
• Start the engine from cold. Listen for knocks and watch for smoke.
• Check every warning light comes on and then goes out.
• Try every switch, window, seat adjustment and the air conditioning.

The test drive

• Make sure you are insured to drive it.
• Drive at different speeds, including a faster road if possible.
• The car should brake in a straight line and the steering should not pull.
• Gear changes should be smooth, and the clutch should not slip.

Paying and after you buy

• Pay by bank transfer so there is a record. Never hand over a full payment before you have the car and the new keeper slip.
• Get a written receipt with both names, the date, price, registration and VIN.
• Tax the car before you drive it away. Use the 12-digit reference on the new keeper slip. See how to tax a car.
• Arrange insurance from the moment of purchase.
• The new V5C should arrive within 4 weeks.

Your rights

Buying from a dealer gives you rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015: the car must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and as described, and you can reject a faulty car within 30 days. Buying privately gives you far fewer rights. The car only has to be as described, so get the description in writing.

Sources

• GOV.UK: Check MOT history
• GOV.UK: Buying a used vehicle
• Citizens Advice: Buying a used car

Checked against official sources on 15 October 2026. Rules and prices change, so confirm anything important on GOV.UK. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.