UKVIN BUYER GUIDE
Used Car Checklist: What to Check Before You Buy
A vehicle-history report is useful, but buying safely also means checking the actual car, its documents, the seller's claims and the handover.
Before viewing
- Save the advert
- Check recorded history
- Review MOT patterns
- Ask seller questions
- Confirm viewing arrangements
At the car
- Match registration and VIN evidence
- Inspect documents
- Check tyres/brakes/bodywork
- Check dashboard and controls
- Review service evidence
Test drive
- Confirm insurance
- Start cold where possible
- Check steering/braking/gears
- Listen for unusual noise
- Re-check warnings afterwards
Before paying
- Resolve material warnings
- Agree included items
- Check payment recipient
- Get a receipt
- Arrange insurance and tax
TAKE THE CHECKLIST WITH YOU
OPEN VIEWING MODE →UKVIN Viewing Mode turns this into an interactive workflow.