What to check when buying a used car

Buying a used car goes well when you take it in order: paperwork first, then the history, then the car itself, then the drive. If anything does not add up at one step, you can walk away before you have spent time or money on the next.

1. Check the paperwork

• UK: the V5C log book. The make, model, number plate and VIN on the V5C should match the car. The VIN is usually visible through the bottom of the windscreen. Look at the original document, not a copy. The V5C shows the registered keeper, which is not proof of ownership, so get a receipt too.
• Seller's details. If buying privately, the name and address on the documents should match the seller and the place you are viewing the car. Viewing at the seller's home makes this easy to check.
• US: the title. Check the VIN on the title matches the car, and look for brands such as salvage or flood.
• Service history. Stamps or receipts that line up with the mileage are a good sign. Big gaps are worth asking about.
• MOT (UK). Check the expiry date and any advisories. An old pass does not mean the car is roadworthy today.

2. Run a history check

A history check tells you about the car's past that the seller may not mention: outstanding finance, theft, a write-off or insurance total loss, and mileage that has been wound back. The RAC suggests doing it before you even go to see the car.

• UK: the GOV.UK MOT history check is free and shows past results, recorded mileage at each test, failures and minor defects. Mileage that goes down between tests is a red flag. Paid checks add finance, theft and write-off records.
• US: the government's NMVTIS system covers title brands, the last reported odometer reading and salvage or total-loss records. Commercial reports add reported accidents and service records.
• Both: check for open safety recalls. GOV.UK and NHTSA both offer recall lookups.

Whether a paid report is worth the money, and what it can miss, is covered in our guide: Is a car history report worth it?

3. Look the car over yourself

View the car in daylight and dry weather if you can; rain and darkness hide a lot.

• Bodywork. Uneven panel gaps, paint that does not quite match, or ripples in the paint can mean accident repairs. Small dents and scratches are bargaining points.
• Tires. Below 1.6 mm (2/32 inch) of tread is illegal in the UK and EU, and most US states use the same limit. If they are under about 3 mm, budget for new ones. See how long tires last.
• Under the hood. Check the oil and coolant levels and look for leaks on the engine and on the ground. A creamy, mayonnaise-like layer under the oil filler cap can mean coolant is mixing with the oil, a possible head gasket problem.
• Inside. Test every switch, the windows, the lights, the heater and the air conditioning. Look for damp carpets, which can point to leaks or flood damage.
• Dashboard. With the ignition on, the warning lights should come on and then go out once the engine starts. Any that stay on need explaining. Our dashboard light colors guide helps.

4. Take a proper test drive

Make sure you are insured to drive it. In the UK, your own policy may not cover you, so you may need temporary cover.

1. Start it from cold if possible. Ask why if the seller has already warmed it up.
2. Watch the temperature gauge. It should reach normal within about ten minutes and stay there.
3. Turn the radio off and listen for knocks, rattles or rough running.
4. Test the brakes somewhere safe. The car should stop straight without pulling or grinding.
5. Check the steering. On a flat, straight road, the car should not pull to one side. Listen for clunks over bumps.
6. Try the gears. Manual: a smooth clutch with no slipping. Automatic: smooth, prompt shifts.
7. Restart it when warm to make sure it starts easily hot as well as cold.

5. Get an independent inspection

If you are not confident judging a car's mechanics, pay an independent mechanic or an inspection service to look it over before you buy. The FTC recommends this even for dealer-certified cars, and suggests asking for a written report with repair estimates, which you can use to negotiate. If a seller refuses an inspection, consider walking away.

6. Before you pay

• Know your rights. In the UK, a car from a dealer must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and as described; you have fewer rights buying privately. In the US, read the Buyers Guide on the window: "as is" means you pay for any repairs after the sale. Get any promises in writing.
• Pay safely. Paying by credit card can give you extra protection with some purchases.
• Plan the running costs. Our cost of ownership tool helps you compare cars before you commit.