What To Look Out For When Buying A Used Car

When buying a used car, it is essential to look out for the vehicle’s service history, current condition, mileage and whether it has been involved in any accidents. These factors can make the difference between a reliable long term investment and a costly mistake. 

Why Is The Service History So Important?

A full service history is one of the clearest signs that a car has been properly looked after. It shows that the previous owner followed the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including vital oil changes, brake checks and timing belt replacements. A stamped service book or digital records from a dealership or garage can give you peace of mind that the car has been maintained to a good standard.

The AA notes that regular servicing can reduce the likelihood of mechanical failures and improve the resale value of a car later on. If a vehicle has gaps in its service history, it might indicate neglect, and you should approach with caution or negotiate a lower price.

Has The Car Ever Been In An Accident?

Checking whether a car has been in a crash is crucial. Even minor accidents can lead to hidden damage that affects how the car drives, and in severe cases, structural damage could make it unsafe. One way to check is by getting a vehicle history check, which can reveal whether the car has previously been written off by insurers, or whether it still has outstanding finance.

According to a 2024 report, nearly 1 in 3 used cars in the UK has a hidden history, including prior accidents, mileage discrepancies or outstanding loans. Always run a history check before making a purchase.

What Should You Inspect On The Exterior And Interior?

When viewing a used car, take your time to walk around the exterior and look for signs of damage, rust or mismatched paint, which could suggest repairs after a collision. Check the tyre tread depth as well; anything below 1.6mm is illegal in the UK. Uneven wear might indicate suspension or alignment issues.

Inside the car, check for signs of wear and tear on the seats, steering wheel, pedals and dashboard. These can give clues about how heavily the car has been used, even if the mileage appears low. Make sure all electronics work properly, including windows, lights, heating and infotainment systems.

How Can You Verify The Mileage?

Mileage should correspond with the car’s age. As a guide, the average car in the UK drives between 7,000 and 10,000 miles per year. So a 5 year old vehicle should have around 35,000 to 50,000 miles. You can check the MOT history for free on the GOV.UK website to confirm that mileage readings have increased steadily over time.

The RAC advises that mileage fraud, while less common today, still occurs. If the mileage seems suspiciously low for the vehicle’s age, ask for additional proof such as service invoices or inspection records.

Should You Take The Car For A Test Drive?

Yes, always take the car for a test drive before committing. A short drive can reveal a lot about how the car performs. Listen for any strange noises when accelerating, braking or turning. Pay attention to how the clutch feels and whether the gears shift smoothly.

Test the brakes, steering and suspension over different road surfaces. If anything feels off or unresponsive, it could point to worn components that may be costly to fix.

Who Should You Buy From?

You have several options: private sellers, used car dealerships or franchised dealers. Each comes with its own advantages and risks. Buying from a dealership might offer more legal protection and even a short warranty, while private sellers often have lower prices but fewer guarantees.

Make sure the seller’s name matches the V5C logbook and that the address on the document is current. Never meet in a car park or agree to pay in cash without paperwork.

What Legal Checks Should You Do?

Ensure the car has a valid MOT certificate and ask to see the V5C logbook, which confirms the registered keeper. Verify the VIN (vehicle identification number) on the car matches the number on the logbook and service documents. It should appear on a metal plate under the bonnet or inside the door frame.

It is also worth checking whether road tax and insurance will be affordable, especially for younger or high-performance cars. A vehicle might look like a good deal initially but turn out to be costly to run.

Final Thoughts

Buying a used car can be a smart financial decision, but only if you take the time to look closely at the car’s history, condition, paperwork and performance. With a little caution and some simple checks, you can avoid unpleasant surprises and drive away with confidence.