Used cars have great value for money, which makes them a go-to option for many. However, purchasing such a vehicle may be a minefield, even though the odds seem to be stacked in the buyer’s favour, given that the global used car market is growing and expected to reach $1.5 trillion by 2027. It does not matter whether you purchase privately, from an independent trader, or from an approved dealer – there are still risks. Nevertheless, combining a well-thought-out used car buying checklist with a bit of diligence will make the task much easier, and the tips highlighted in this guide will help you get the best deal possible.
Used car documentation checklist
Before making a deal, it’s important to thoroughly inspect all the car’s documents to ensure the vehicle is what it claims to be. You should check if a seller has:
- V5C registration document with detailed vehicle description (VIN, model, engine specifics, etc.) and the name and address of the seller
- MOT certificate
- Service history, containing information on car maintenance and repairs
- Valid insurance documents
- Vehicle handbook
Once you decide to purchase a car and pay the seller, they must give you a receipt proving the transaction. The seller also needs to inform DVLA about the change of ownership. If you are required to provide any additional documents, fill out PDF online using the PDF Guru editor to speed up the process and ensure accurate form completion. The tool has a wide range of ready-made templates, and you can fill them out conveniently using any device.
Vehicle condition checklist for used car purchase
Before purchasing a pre-owned vehicle, always schedule a visual examination in the daytime, ideally when the weather is dry. It may be more difficult to spot damage when it’s raining or dark. Here’s what to look out for when viewing a second-hand car:
- Paintwork: check whether there are any differences in gaps or colours between the panels, as this may testify to extensive car repairs after an accident. Furthermore, bubble paintwork is a clear sign of rust. At the same time, do not be overly concerned about a couple of minor scratches or dents – you are dealing with a used vehicle, after all. It’s better to use them to negotiate the price.
- Windows, doors, and boot: check all the locks, be it remote control or central locking, everything should work well. Ensure there are no signs of forced entry. Then check if the windows open and close normally. The same goes for the boot.
- Suspension system: push down on every car corner to give it a good bounce. If the vehicle returns to position smoothly without swaying or knocking, the system is not damaged, so you can expect a comfortable ride. Uneven tire wear is also a sign of suspension issues.
- Wheels and tyres: inspect all the wheels (and a spare one, if any) for signs of damage. Small grazes are common and not a problem, while wheels with bends or dents in the rims require replacing. Look at the tyres too. There should be no splits, bulges, or cuts. Moreover, ensure the tread is deep enough (at least 1.6 mm).
- Under the bonnet: open the bonnet and draw attention to the engine. Are there any leaks around it? Oil is usually brown (or black if old), but this is far from the only fluid that can seep out. So, coolant is usually yellow, green, or pink, and power steering fluid – reddish brown.
Test drive checklist when buying a used car
Any used car buying checklist cannot be done without a test drive. Besides checking for potential problems, this also allows you to determine if you like driving the vehicle. These are the main points to focus on:
- Engine: start the engine and listen to how it sounds; any abnormal noises signal costly repairs. Excessive exhaust emissions should alert you, too.
- Clutch and gears: the gears should work quietly, smoothly, and in line with the engine load and speed. If the car is manual, it should start moving when you push the clutch halfway to the floor. Otherwise, the pedal needs attention.
- Brakes: the brakes should produce adequate stopping power without any extraneous sounds when you slow down.
- Steering: does the steering feel effortless or heavy? Is there any wheel vibration? When you take your hands away, does it pull to one side?
- Performance: make sure you love the way it drives from the moment the car starts moving to the final stop.
Final thoughts
Keep this used car checklist in mind when purchasing a vehicle to make sure your budget-friendly deal will not turn into a costly exercise as soon as you take a ride. It’s also a smart idea to perform a car history check to find out if it has outstanding finance or has been written off or recorded as stolen. It will save you from uncertainty and help you make well-informed car-buying decisions.
