Buying a Second Hand Car
 

Buying a Second-hand Car?

What to do

  • Don't pay more than the advertised price

  • Take someone with you when you go to view, preferably someone who knows about cars

  • Use the checklist attached to this leaflet

Clocked cars

Clocking cars is a way of reducing miles shown on the car's odometer. In some cases, it is difficult to tell whether the indicated mileage is true or false.

Look out for:

  • Excessive wear on the pedal rubbers, gear shift and steering wheel

  • A sagging seat or worn driver's seat cover and worn carpets on the driver's side

  • Excessive damage from stone chippings

  • Are the numbers on the odometer lining up?

  • Check the mileage on the car against the Service and MOT records

What to check before you buy

  • Check that the person selling the car really owns it. Ask to see the vehicle registration document and if it is a private sale, make sure the seller's name and address appears on it. Ask the seller for proof of identity

  • If it is a trade seller, check with the previous owner whether the vehicle has been involved in an accident. Check faults that it may have had prior to sale

  • Check the warranty offered for the car. What does it cover?

  • Check for signs of a respray, touch-up, rust or other damage

  • Check the price of the car (You may find it helpful to buy a used-car price guide; available from most newsagents)

Handy hints

  • It is best to buy from a reputable trader with the backing of a trade association

  • If you buy privately, you need to be extra careful and remember you have fewer legal rights. Keep a copy of the advertisement and any correspondence between you and the seller

  • Have the car checked by an independent motor mechanic

  • Go for a test drive

  • Make sure you can afford the asking price

  • Don't forget the running costs - how much does it cost to insure and think about the servicing, road tax and petrol

  • If you buy, make sure you obtain a receipt

A buyer's checklist

Make:

Model:

Registration No:

Mileage Recorded:

Asking Price:

Name of Seller:

Address:

Identity checked:

Ask

  • Are you the owner of the car?

  • May I see the log book? (check that the name matches that of the seller)

  • If older than 3 years, is there a current MOT? (check expiry date)

  • Why are you selling?

  • Have you had the car regularly serviced?

  • May I see the records?

  • Is there a warranty/guarantee?

Check

There really is no alternative to getting an expert to check the car; it may save you money in the long run. If you are unable to, then you can check:

  • The Bodywork

Do all the panels line up? Use a magnet to detect any filler which may be hiding damaged bodywork or rust.

  • The Tyres

Is there uneven wear or damage to the rim?

  • The Engine Number

Is it the same as that on the registration document?

  • The Shock Absorbers

Press down on each corner. It should bounce once, then hold still.

Please Note

This leaflet is not an authoritative interpretation of the law and is intended only for guidance. For further information please contact your local Trading Standards office.

Last reviewed/updated: August 2002

Copyright 2006 itsa Ltd on behalf of the Trading Standards Institute

This leaflet is relevant for the following nation(s) only:

  • England

  • Scotland

  • Wales

  • Northern Ireland