Used Car Buying Checklist
The main thing's to think about
We all need reassurance that the car we're buying is safe and that everything works properly with no expensive repair bills looming.
Checks are vital. After all, you don't want to end up with a used car that has been:
- stolen
- involved in a serious smash and possibly written off
- clocked (had the mileage wound back)
Before you view the car
Read our DIY inspection list . It tells you all the things you should look for. For extra peace of mind, why not print the list before you go to view a car, and tick each item off as you go.
Remember, if you find it all too daunting you can get someone else to check the car over for you.
Hidden Past?
Unfortunately, you'd have a real job on your hands to check a car's 'hidden past' yourself. While you can look out for things such as MOT or registration anomalies on the paperwork, it's worth investing in a Car Data Check to be sure of the car's past as well. We can check if there are any outstanding loans or finance attached to a car, if the car has been registered as stolen and even if the car has been classed as a write-off.
Car Insurance
If you're taking a car out for a test drive make sure that you are insured. Dealers will have cover specifically for this purpose but there is a high risk that you might not be covered if you test drive a car being sold by a private vendor.
Check your own car insurance – you are looking for the words on the policy that says you can 'drive another car with the owner's permission'. This is known as DOC or Driving Other Cars cover. Not all insurers include this so it really is important to check. Also, you should be aware that such cover is usually third party only. You can also check with the vendor to see whether they have extended their cover temporarily to 'any driver' so that they are covered while you test drive their car.
Talk to your insurer if you are unsure. Also, for a small additional premium they may offer you comprehensive cover over a short period of time so that you can test drive cars you are thinking of buying.