Go To A-Z Index

You are in: How To Guides > Used Car Buyers' Checklist

How To Guides Used Car Buyers' Checklist

This section offers a variety of How-To-Guides for the UK car owner. This section is great place to start in your search to buy a car or figure out how to sell one. Enjoy. 

> Featured Insurance Listings

Finding a great insurance quote should be quick and easy. Here are two insurance offers from names you know and trust. Just click for an instant, free quote. There is no obligation to purchase, so why not get quotes from both companies to ensure you get the best price possible? Select the lowest rates and save. It's that simple. affiliate impressions

Featured Insurer Special Offer
image
  • Tesco Car Insurance
  • Save up to 30% on car insurance
  • 15% discount online
  • 50% named-driver discount
  • 70% discount for careful drivers
  • Earn Clubcard points on your premium
  • Get a quote
affiliate impressions
image
  • Churchill Car insurance
  • 25% introductory discount
  • 15% online discount
  • 10% discount on additional vehicle policies
  • 65% no claims discount
  • Unlimited cover for audio equipment, fixed car phones and sat. nav. systems
  • Get a quote
affiliate impressions

Used Car Buyers' Checklist

Here are the top three standard checks to make for each area of a used car. They will help you identify any misuse or signs of neglect or accident damage. Print this out and take it with you when you insect potential used cars.

Interior

  • Do all the lights work?
  • Do all the controls, switches and displays work properly?
  • Are the carpets and seats all dry? If not, is there a leak?

Bodywork

  • Is the bodywork free from dents, scratches and rust?
  • Make sure you are not checking the car in the wet or the dark, as you are more likely to miss problems
  • Squat down and look along the sides of the car to help you spot mild dents
  • Pull back rubber seals around windows. Is the paintwork free from over-spray and suspect repair signs?
  • Look for signs of additional layers of paint, or ill-matching spray marks where an additional layer of paint has been added but the finish is not right. These are signs of an accident repair
  • Open the boot and bonnet. Is the metal work in good condition? Wherever there is exposed metal you need to look for ill-matching colours or buckling. These are signs of an accident

Engine

  • Is the exhaust smoke-free when the engine is warm? If not, there may be a problem
  • Is the coolant reservoir full of brightly coloured coolant? It should not be empty or brown. If not, are there any leaks that need further inspection?
  • Is there plenty of clean oil in the engine? If the oil in the engine smells burnt there may be a problem.

Test Drive

  • Does the car drive in a straight line when you loosen your grip on the wheel?
  • Is the steering accurate and free from play or judder?
  • Does the car pull away and brake easily without any noises or judder?

If you are unable tick one or more of the boxes, the car should be inspected by a professional. It is better to spend a few quid now and be sure then to send much more later on.