Complete Guide to Buying a Used Car
Buying a secondhand car can save you a lot compared to a brand-new one, but it comes with its own risks. To avoid ending up with problems later, it’s important to be careful and informed before making your purchase. This guide will take you through everything you need to know—from where to buy, to the questions to ask when buying a used car, to what to check when buying a used car. If you’re buying privately, remember that your legal protections may not be as strong, so doing your homework is key. And if you’re unsure about any part of the process, getting a professional car check can give you extra peace of mind.
Where Should You Buy Your Used Car?
1. Buying a Used Car from a Dealer, Garage, or Independent Trader
If you’re not confident about buying a secondhand car, starting with a dealer or trader can be easier than buying privately. Buying privately usually requires more knowledge about cars.
A trader can be many things — from someone selling cars from their driveway to a big franchised dealer selling new and almost new cars.
The main difference is in the service and support you get after buying, and also the price. Bigger dealers usually prepare cars carefully and offer warranties. This extra care means their cars cost more. Independent garages sit in the middle, giving a mix of price and support.
Knowing these differences can help you choose the right place to buy based on what you need and your budget.
Key Considerations Before Choosing a Seller
Choosing where to buy your used car is a big decision, and there’s a lot to think about. Main dealers and garages usually give their cars a proper once-over and include a warranty—often six or twelve months. This can push the price up a bit, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind that your car has been checked and is covered if anything goes wrong.
Buying from a driveway trader might seem like a bargain up front, but watch out. Often, these sellers just give the car a quick wash after picking it up at auction, which means you could be facing costly repairs soon after. Sure, the law says you have rights if the car isn’t fit for the road, but chasing those can be stressful. Plus, you usually only have 30 days to act if you spot a serious fault.
Think about what you want from your car. If you need a reliable family car to keep for years, it makes sense to invest a bit more for that security. But if you just want something cheap for quick trips, a trader might fit the bill.
Independent garages often strike a balance. They usually care about their reputation and offer decent cars, but it’s still smart to check online reviews and read the fine print on any warranty they provide.
If you go for a dealer, an approved dealer network can help you feel confident in your choice.
2. Buying a Used Car Privately – Is It Worth It?
Buying a used car privately can seem like a great way to save money, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Cars sold by private owners are usually cheaper than those at dealers, and there’s often more room to negotiate since the seller isn’t looking to make a big profit. Plus, meeting the previous owner gives you a chance to ask questions about how the car’s been cared for. If the car looks clean and well-kept, that’s usually a good sign. You can also find out why they’re selling it—maybe they’re upgrading, or maybe the car has issues they don’t want to deal with.
However, buying privately comes with its own challenges. Some owners ask for prices close to what a dealer might charge, so be prepared to wait for the right deal or negotiate firmly. Unlike dealers, private sellers don’t have to do thorough health checks on the car, so you need to be extra careful when inspecting and test driving. Also, your legal protection is weaker—you won’t have the same rights if the car breaks down after you buy it.
If you’re willing to put in the time and effort to check everything carefully, buying privately can work out well. Just be sure you know what you’re getting into, and don’t rush the decision.
3. Buying a Used Car at Auction – What You Need to Know
Buying a used car at auction can feel a bit risky, and many buyers are rightly cautious. Cars sold at auction are often there for a quick sale and usually come without a warranty or much protection. But if you’re careful and do your homework, auctions can be a chance to snap up a real bargain. Just be ready to move fast and know what you’re getting into.
Advantages and Risks of Car Auctions
Car auctions can be a great way to find a bargain if you’re lucky and the competition isn’t too fierce. You can buy a car quickly and get a feel for what others are paying for similar vehicles. Plus, auctions often let you buy before or after the sale, giving you a little more time to decide.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. Finding a true bargain is getting tougher since many dealers now use online auctions to sell part-exchanges, and more traders are joining in. Decisions at auctions often have to be made fast, sometimes under pressure, which can lead to mistakes. Also, private buyers are catching on and going for cars that dealers might avoid—like those with unusual colours or fuel-hungry engines—which could mean cheaper prices.
One big challenge is you won’t get the chance to do a proper health check or test drive before buying. So, you need to be extra cautious.
If you’re new to auctions, here are some tips: get there early so you can look over the cars carefully. Do your homework—check what similar cars sell for privately or at dealers, and see past auction prices. Chat with the auctioneer; they’re there to help and can answer your questions. Set a strict budget and stick to it—it's easy to get caught up in bidding and overspend. Also, remember auction fees—they can add quite a bit on top, so find out what they are beforehand to avoid surprises.
Look and listen closely when the car is up for sale; signs like engine noise can tell you a lot about its condition.
4. Should You Buy a Used Car Online?
Buying a used car online is becoming more and more popular, and it’s easy to see why — you can browse thousands of cars from the comfort of your home. Many people buy through online auctions or click ‘buy it now’ on car sale websites.
But buying without seeing the car first has its risks. It’s a good idea to meet the seller and check the car in person if you can. Still, if you’re willing to take a chance, you might snag a last-minute bargain. Most sellers will ask for a deposit via PayPal before you pick the car up.
One nice thing is if the car isn’t as described when you get there, you can walk away without penalty. However, if you decide you don’t like the colour or find the seats uncomfortable, you’re still expected to complete the purchase.
If the car is far away and you can’t collect it yourself, transport companies can deliver it to your door for a fair price. Services like Shiply let you compare quotes from different transporters, making it easier to find a good deal.
Online car buying is convenient and offers lots of choices, but it pays to be cautious and know the risks before clicking ‘buy’.
Buying Used Car Checklist: What to Look For
We’ve all been there — standing next to a car you want to buy, feeling unsure about what to check. Instead of awkwardly kicking tyres and hoping for the best, it’s smart to know exactly what to look for. Having a clear buying a used car checklist can help you spot issues early and avoid costly mistakes. With a little guidance, you’ll feel confident inspecting any used car before you buy.
Top 10 Physical Checks Before Buying a Used Car
Here are the ten important checks to make when inspecting a used car. Having a clear, used car buying checklist helps you spot potential problems early.
1. Tyres
The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm. If the tyres are below this, the car isn’t road-legal, and it’s a sign the owner hasn’t looked after it properly. Tyres with less than 3mm will need replacing soon, so factor that into your budget. For more expensive or performance cars, you’ll want all four tyres to be matching premium brands.
2. Dents and Scratches
Check the bodywork carefully in daylight. Small dents or scratches are normal and fixable, but they can help you negotiate a better price. Look out for kerbing on the wheels, too.
3. Panel Gaps
Look closely at the spaces between body panels. Large or uneven gaps could mean the car was in an accident and poorly repaired. Also, check for any colour mismatches between panels.
4. Fluid Levels
Open the bonnet and check the oil, brake, and power steering fluids. Low levels can mean poor maintenance. Also, look for leaks under the bonnet and under the car where it’s usually parked.
5. Under the Oil Cap
Check under the oil cap for any white, mayonnaise-like substance. This might be condensation, but often, it’s coolant mixing with oil—a sign the head gasket could be damaged. Also, look at the coolant expansion tank to make sure it’s clean.
6. Electrics
Test all electrical parts. Roll the windows up and down, turn the radio on and off, check if the air conditioning blows cold, and test any special features like heated seats. Faulty electrics might be easy to fix, but they can be good points to negotiate on.
7. Glass
Look for chips or cracks in the windscreen, especially in the driver’s line of sight, as this can cause an MOT failure. Also, check the front and rear lights for any damage, fogging, or moisture inside.
8. Upholstery
Don’t forget to check the interior. Look for stains, tears, or bad smells—especially smoke smells, which can be hard to get rid of.
9. Spare Wheel and Accessories
See if the car comes with a spare wheel or tyre repair kit, and check they’re in good shape. Also, make sure there’s a jack and the correct tool for any locking wheel nuts.
10. Wear and Tear
Some wear is normal, but it should match the car’s age and mileage. If the mileage is low but the driver’s seat, steering wheel, or pedals look very worn, that could be a warning sign.
Look Out for Accident Damage For Used Cars
When buying a used car, it’s important to watch out for signs of accident damage. One of the easiest ways is to check how the panels line up. They should have small, even gaps and the paint colour should be consistent all over the car.
If you spot any ripples or uneven areas in the bodywork, this could mean the car was damaged and repaired badly using filler. A simple magnet can help here—the filler isn’t magnetic, so it will show up.
It’s also good to know the car’s usual features. For example, if it’s a high-spec model, it might have chrome trim. If that’s missing, ask why. Sometimes, parts are replaced after repairs, but it’s worth being sure.
Finally, take a look at the number plates. They should have the supplier’s name printed in small letters. If it’s not a dealer, ask why. There could be a good reason like the plate being replaced after fading, but it might also mean the car was involved in a crash.
These checks can help you avoid buying a car with hidden damage.
Check the Documents for Used Cars Thoroughly
When buying a used car, checking the documents carefully is crucial. The most important paper is the V5C, also called the registration document or log book. Make sure the car’s make, model, and number plate match what’s on the V5C.
Look for the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the V5C and check that it matches the VIN on the car itself — usually visible at the bottom of the windscreen.
If you’re buying privately, confirm that the registered keeper’s name on the V5C matches the seller’s name and address. If not, ask why. Sometimes, sellers can be dealers pretending to be private owners or worse; the car might be stolen.
Also, inspect the V5C for a watermark and any spelling mistakes — these could be signs of a fake document. Check if the VIN plate shows any tampering or if there are scratches on the glass that might hide altered VIN numbers.
Don’t forget to look at the fuel filler for signs it’s been damaged or replaced. Finally, if the car is over three years old, ensure it has a valid MOT certificate. These checks help make sure you’re buying a legal and honest vehicle.
MOT and Service History Checks for Used Cars: What It Tells You
The MOT certificate used to be the main proof a car was roadworthy, but now you can check the MOT history online. This lets you see if the car has a current valid MOT and if it has passed all tests over the years.
The MOT test is an annual check required for cars over three years old to make sure they’re safe to drive. When looking at the MOT, check the expiry date and read any advisories the tester has made. Some issues, like low tyre tread, are easy to spot, but others, like rust under the car, might be hidden. These warnings can hint if the seller hasn’t fixed problems and is trying to sell before the car needs costly repairs.
A full service history is a big plus, especially for more expensive or specialist cars. It shows the car has been well looked after with regular maintenance. For cheaper cars, you might not get much service paperwork, but it’s always worth asking. Knowing the MOT and service history can give you extra confidence in the car you’re thinking of buying. For more information on MOT read our guide on what to check before MOT.
Why a Used Car History Check Matters?
When buying a used car, checking its history is one of the smartest moves you can make. It helps uncover things the seller might not tell you — like if the car has been stolen, written off, or has unpaid finance that could cause big problems down the road.
Studies show that as many as one in four used cars hides some kind of secret history. That’s why services like the My Car Reg data check, Check Mot History, ULEZ Checker, Salvage Check, Bhp Check, and Mileage Check are so useful. They can reveal mileage tampering, common breakdowns for that model, MOT failures, and even give you valuation and inspection tips.
Keep in mind, though, that a history check can’t tell you everything. It’s a good idea to ask the seller about the car’s past. How many owners has it had? Was it used as a company or pool car? These details can give you a better picture of what you’re buying.
Being curious and thorough here can save you a lot of hassle later and help you make a confident choice.
How to Test Drive a Used Car Properly?
Taking a test drive is a must when buying a used car. But first, make sure you have the right insurance. Temporary cover is easy to get online and can protect you for just an hour or so.
During the drive, pay attention to how the car handles, sounds, and feels. This helps spot any hidden problems before you buy.
11 Test Drive Checks to Make Before You Buy
1. Does it start OK?
A car that struggles to start might just need a new battery. But if it’s really difficult, there could be bigger mechanical problems that could get expensive.
2. Check the temperature gauge when you start it
Has the seller warmed the car up before you arrive? Try to start the engine when it’s cold and then again after it’s been running for a while to see if it starts easily both times.
3. Watch the temperature gauge
The engine should reach its normal temperature within 10 minutes and stay steady. If it doesn’t, the thermostat might need replacing. Overheating could mean more serious issues.
4. Check the clutch
See how easy it is to find the biting point on the clutch pedal. Test it by accelerating up a hill in high gear to check for slipping, and try a quick getaway to spot any juddering.
5. Check the transmission
All gears should change smoothly without crunching or feeling too loose or stiff. The gear stick should move back to the centre after you shift out of gear. For automatics, gear changes should be smooth and match your speed.
6. Check the steering
The steering should feel smooth and quiet. Power steering should help, so the wheel shouldn’t feel heavy. Try taking your hands off briefly—does the car stay straight or pull to one side? A flat, level road is best for this test.
7. Is the suspension working properly?
Drive over some bumps and listen for thuds or clunks. Feel for any strange jolts inside the car. Some cars have stiffer suspension, but unusual noises or harsh rides can signal problems.
8. Listen to the engine
Turn off the radio and focus on the engine’s sound. It should run smoothly. If it’s rough or noisy, the car might have been neglected.
9. Does it perform as expected?
Accelerate through the gears and see if the car keeps up with traffic smoothly. If it feels sluggish or has power gaps, there could be mechanical issues.
10. Test the brakes
Find a safe spot with no cars behind and brake hard. The car should stop straight and smoothly without pulling to one side or making strange noises. Don’t forget to check the handbrake, especially if it’s an electronic one.
11. Do you like it?
Beyond checking for faults, ask yourself if you enjoy driving the car. Is the seat comfortable? Would you be happy on your usual journeys? A used car is a big purchase, so be sure it feels right for you.
How to Negotiate the Best Deal On a Used Car?
Negotiating for a used car can feel tricky, but staying polite and fair goes a long way. Some sellers will be happy to haggle, while others might not want to budge. Think of it as a challenge, not a battle — aggressive or rude offers usually don’t work.
When you meet the seller, walk around the car with them and point out any issues you’ve noticed. They’ve probably factored these into the price, but showing you’re aware can help your case. Before viewing, do your homework: check prices for similar cars so you know what it’s really worth.
Set a budget and stick to it. If the price feels too high for the condition, make an offer and be ready to walk away if it’s not accepted. Sometimes, sellers come back with a counteroffer later.
If buying from a dealer, you might get extras like a full tank of fuel, a service, or an MOT thrown in instead of a price drop.
Never feel pressured to buy. If you’re not 100% sure, walk away — there’s always another car. When buying privately, meet at the seller’s home to check their address matches the V5C. Avoid public places for safety and peace of mind.
Paying for Your Used Car: What Are Your Options?
After you’ve agreed on a price, the next step is paying for your used car. How you pay often depends on how much the car costs. For a cheap car, handing over cash might work fine. But for something more expensive, like a £20,000 car, paying with lots of cash could cause problems.
You could pay by cheque, but the seller will want to wait until the money clears before you drive away. Online or telephone banking transfers are faster, though they might not be instant. Another option is a banker’s draft, which clears quickly but comes with a small fee.
If you’re buying from a dealer, some let you pay by credit card, though they might charge a small fee. Dealers also often offer finance deals, but these usually have higher rates than a personal loan you get yourself.
It’s a good idea to think about the safest and most convenient way to pay before you agree to buy.
Before You Hand Over the Money
Before you hand over any money, make sure you’re completely happy with the car you’re buying. It’s best to use a payment method that can be tracked, like a credit or debit card, rather than cash, which is harder to trace.
Be cautious when buying online—do your research on the seller first. Once you’ve paid, always ask for a receipt that includes the date, the car’s mileage, and any promises like work to be done before you collect the car.
Following these steps helps protect you and makes the whole process smoother.
Top 10 Questions to Ask the Seller When Buying a Used Car
Buying a used car can feel overwhelming, but asking the right questions helps you feel more confident. Here is what to ask when buying a used car:
1. Can I see the car in person?
Always check the car yourself before paying, especially if buying privately online. Never buy without a proper look.
2. Is the car legal to sell?
Make sure the car isn’t written off, stolen, or has any unpaid finance. Buying a car that isn’t legally sold can land you in trouble.
3. Why are you selling it?
Asking why the seller is parting with the car can reveal hidden issues or reasons not mentioned in the ad.
4. Can I see all the documents?
Request to see the V5C registration and full-service history. Use these to check the car’s past, including with tools like the MY Car Reg vehicle history check.
5. How many previous owners has the car had?
More owners often mean the car is worth less. Whether it’s had one or several, this should affect the price.
6. Has the car ever been in a crash?
Accidents can cause hidden damage that might not be obvious. If the car was written off, it might not even be legal to sell, so it’s vital to check this first.
7. Are you the registered keeper?
If the seller isn’t the official keeper, they may not know much about the car. Sometimes, they’re selling for a family member, but it’s best to be cautious.
8. Is the car exactly as described?
Make sure the car matches what’s in the advert. Bring the listing with you and double-check everything to avoid surprises.
9. Can I drive the car home?
If the seller says yes, the car should be roadworthy, have a valid MOT, and have no major issues that could cause it to break down.
10. Can I take the car for a test drive?
Test driving is the best way to check how the car handles. If the seller won’t let you drive it, that could be a red flag.
Understand Your Rights When Buying a Used Car?
When buying a used car, it’s important to know your rights. Under the Consumer Rights Act, any car bought from a dealer or trader must be of good quality, fit for the job, and match what was promised. Whether you buy from a dealer or privately, the car has to be roadworthy — safe and legal to drive.
The Road Traffic Act 1988 makes it illegal to sell a vehicle that isn’t roadworthy. If you find a fault with the car, what you can do depends on when you report the problem.
In the first 30 days, if the car has a fault, you can reject it and get a full refund when you return it. You can also ask for a repair or replacement, which the dealer must do quickly without causing you too much hassle.
Between 31 days and six months, you can still ask for a repair or replacement if the car has a fault. If the problem isn’t fixed, you can reject the car and get a refund, although this might be reduced based on how much you’ve used it. At this stage, the law assumes the fault was there when you bought the car — it’s up to the dealer to prove otherwise.
From six months to six years after buying, you can still ask for repairs or a replacement if you prove the fault existed when you got the car. If repairs don’t fix it, you can reject the car or get a price reduction. However, after six months, it’s your responsibility to show the fault was there at the time of purchase.
After six years, you generally can’t claim legal remedies in England and Wales (five years in Scotland).
If you used a credit card to pay, you might be able to get help from your card provider under the Consumer Credit Act.
If the car was bought with finance or lease, your options might be different, so it’s best to check the details carefully.
Knowing these rights helps you protect yourself and feel more confident when buying a used car.
Legal Steps if Something Goes Wrong
If you can’t settle a problem with the dealer, there are legal steps you can take. First, give them a chance to fix the issue. If they don’t, the next move is to send a ‘letter before action.’ This formal letter tells them you’re serious about taking the matter to court if it’s not resolved.
MOT Isn’t a Guarantee of Roadworthiness
An MOT certificate shows a car passed its test at a specific time, but it doesn’t guarantee the car is roadworthy on the day you buy it. Problems can develop after the test, and the MOT may note issues the owner should fix later. If you think you’ve been sold a car that’s not safe, you should report it to your local Trading Standards and the DVSA to protect yourself and others on the road.
Why the V5C Isn’t Proof of Ownership?
The V5C shows who’s the registered keeper of the car, but it isn’t proof of ownership. To be safe, always ask the seller for proof of ownership, like a receipt or invoice. This helps make sure the person selling the car actually has the right to do so.
Quick Summary of Buyer’s Legal Rights
When buying a car privately, your legal protection is more limited than when buying from a dealer. It’s important to ask lots of questions because sellers don’t have to share everything. However, if they lie about the car’s condition or history, they could be breaking the law. The car must match the description — for example, if it’s said to have air conditioning but doesn’t, you might be able to ask for your money back.
Sorting Tax and Insurance Before You Drive Off
Before you drive your used car home, you must have insurance and pay road tax (VED). The easiest way to get insurance is to get a quote in advance and then activate the policy online or by phone when you’re ready.
You can pay your car tax using the new keeper’s slip from the V5 on the DVLA website or by calling their 24-hour service on 0300 123 4321. You can also visit your local Post Office to sort it in person.
Being prepared helps you drive away legally and stress-free.
Buying a used car FAQs
How many miles should I buy a used car with?
The average UK driver covers about 7,000 miles a year. While lower mileage might seem better, it’s not everything. Always check the car’s condition and service history alongside the mileage to avoid surprises.
How much discount can I get on a used car from a dealer?
Discounts vary depending on the car and dealer. Doing your research helps you know the fair price. Being polite and pointing out any issues you’ve found can help you negotiate a better deal.
How much can you negotiate on a used car?
Negotiation depends on your skills and the car’s condition. Set a clear budget and be ready to walk away if the price isn’t right. Sometimes, dealers might offer extras instead of a price drop.
Which used cars should you avoid buying?
Avoid cars with a history of frequent breakdowns or major accidents. Also, be cautious with models known for expensive repairs or common faults. Research online and check vehicle history reports to spot any red flags before deciding.
What steps should I take after buying a used car?
After buying, make sure you have valid insurance and pay the road tax. Read the owner’s manual, check fluid levels, and consider getting a full service. Also, arrange breakdown cover for extra peace of mind.
Can you drive a car immediately after buying it?
You can only drive the car if it’s insured and taxed. Many dealers offer temporary insurance, but if not, arrange insurance and road tax before driving away to stay legal.
Is it bad to buy a used car with over 100k miles?
Not always. A car with over 100,000 miles can still be reliable if it’s been well-maintained with a full-service history. Just be ready for potential repairs as parts wear out over time.
What mileage is considered too high for a used car?
There’s no set number to avoid. High mileage isn’t always a problem if the car has been cared for. Focus on service history and overall condition instead of just the miles.
When is the best time to purchase a used car?
March and September are good months because new registration plates arrive, increasing used car sales. This often means better deals as sellers want to make room for newer models.
What documents do I need when buying a used car?
You should get the V5C registration document, a valid MOT certificate, the car’s service history, proof of ownership like a receipt, and any finance or insurance paperwork. These help prove the car’s history and legal status.
Can I drive a car right after buying it without insurance?
No, driving without insurance is illegal and could lead to fines, points, or even a driving ban. Make sure you have insurance in place before you take the car on the road.
Do I need insurance before purchasing a used car?
Yes, you must have insurance before driving the car. You can arrange temporary cover if you just want to test drive, or get full insurance ready before buying. It’s the law and keeps you protected.
Is it better to buy a used car or a new one?
Used cars usually offer better value for money, but new cars come with fewer risks and the latest features. It depends on your budget and what matters most — saving cash or having a brand-new car experience.
Should I pay cash for a used car?
For cheaper cars, cash can be simple and quick. For more expensive vehicles, safer payment methods like bank transfers or credit cards are better to keep a record and avoid risks.
What are my legal rights when buying a used car?
If buying from a dealer, the car must be as described, fit for purpose, and roadworthy. Private sales offer less protection, so ask questions and check everything carefully before buying.
How long does the car buying process take?
Buying a used car can be quick, sometimes just a few hours if everything goes smoothly. But don’t rush—take your time to check the car and paperwork properly to avoid problems later.
What documents do I need when buying a used car?
You’ll need the V5C registration document, MOT certificate, service history, proof of ownership, and any finance papers. These help prove the car’s background and legal status.
Is a receipt necessary when buying a car privately?
Yes, always ask for a receipt. It protects you by proving the sale and showing details like price, date, and car information. Keep a copy safe in case of any disputes later.
Does "sold as seen" apply to private car sales?
Yes, but even if a car is sold “as seen,” it must still be fit for purpose and as described by law. If the car is faulty or not what you were told, you might still have legal options. Always inspect carefully before buying.
What are the best tips for buying a used car?
Set a clear budget, research the car’s history, inspect it thoroughly, and take it for a test drive. Ask plenty of questions and, if unsure, get a mechanic’s opinion. Doing your homework helps avoid costly mistakes.
What’s the safest payment method for buying a car?
Bank transfers, credit cards, or bankers’ drafts are safest because they leave a clear record. Avoid paying large sums in cash to protect yourself against fraud or disputes. Always get a receipt for any payment made.
