Your Used Car Survival Guide: 5 Checks That Matter

Buying a used car is a smart way to save money if you know how to avoid the potential pitfalls. From fake paperwork to hidden mechanical issues, there are many caveats. To help you feel confident in your purchase, here are five essential checks that every buyer should carry out before committing to a used car.

Verifying vehicle documentation

Start by reviewing the vehicle’s paperwork. The car’s V5C registration certificate, or the logbook, is the key document to have on hand – the details on the V5C must match up with the car.

Ensure that the vehicle’s registration number, make, and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) are an exact match with what’s listed on the certificate. The VIN in particular is crucial to establish that the vehicle is legitimate.

Also, get the seller’s full name and address, and make sure these details align with those in the logbook. 

Service gaps tell stories

Next, ask for the vehicle’s MOT (Ministry of Transport) certificates and FSH (full-service history) booklet to identify any recurring problems or missed maintenance. 

An MOT history check will reveal past advisories, failed tests, and mileage inconsistencies. If you notice gaps in servicing or repeated advisories, the car might not be reliable in the long term. 

Make sure to scrutinise the FSH record. A consistent record of upkeep is the best indicator of how well the seller has cared for the car.

Inspecting like a pro

Before you get behind the wheel, inspect the car’s exterior and interior. Look for rust, dents, mismatched paint, and other signs of poor repairs or repeated bumps and accidents. 

In addition to looking over the upholstery for rips and tears, and the dashboard controls, spend time on checking essential safety features. The tread depth of the tyres must be adequate (you don’t want to run afoul of police tyre checks). Also, try out all the lights and indicators and check their condition. And remember to test whether the windows and locks work smoothly. 

Listen to how the car drives

A test drive is your chance to feel how the car actually performs on the road. 

As you drive, pay attention to how the vehicle handles different situations and terrains. Do the brakes respond cleanly? Does the engine or suspension make any strange noises? Does the car follow your steering actions smoothly?

It’s also a good idea to test the air conditioning, radio, and visibility from both the front and rear windows and all mirrors.

Identifying hidden dangers

Finally, check whether the vehicle has any outstanding manufacturer recalls. These can relate to safety-critical systems such as brakes or airbags. 

Unresolved recalls are dangerous and suggest the previous owner may have neglected maintenance. If that’s the case, there might be other issues with the car that will cause headaches down the road. 

The smart way to buy second-hand

If you’re looking to take advantage of the cost-effectiveness of buying a used car, then carrying out these key checks can save you from costly surprises down the line. If you’re well-informed and savvy, you can drive away with a reliable, fairly priced vehicle and peace of mind.