Buyer's Guide

Everything you need to know to buy a used car safely and confidently.

By the MotorMkt teamPublished Last updated

How we source our data: our free checks use official records from the DVLA (registration & tax) and DVSA (MOT history). Paid full history data — finance, stolen and write-off markers — is supplied by UK Vehicle Data (UKVD), which aggregates industry registers including MIAFTR (insurance write-offs) and the Police National Computer (stolen markers). MotorMkt does not query those registers directly.

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Quick Answer

To buy a used car safely: (1) Run a free car check to verify MOT history and mileage, (2) Meet sellers in public and view cars in daylight, (3) Never pay deposits before viewing, (4) Check the V5C logbook matches the seller's ID, and (5) Test drive for at least 15-20 minutes. When buying from dealers, you have 30 days to reject a faulty car for a full refund under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

Before You Start Looking

1. Set Your Budget

Consider not just the purchase price but also insurance, tax, MOT, and running costs. A general rule: set aside 10-15% of the car's value for the first year's maintenance.

2. Know What You Need

Think about: How many seats do you need? What fuel type suits your driving? Do you need specific features like parking sensors or sat nav?

3. Use Our Free Car Check

Before contacting any seller, use our free car check to verify MOT history, mileage records, and tax status. It takes seconds and could save you thousands.

What to Check in the Advert

Good Signs

  • • Multiple clear photos from different angles
  • • Full service history documented
  • • Honest description of any issues
  • • Detailed, specific description (not copy-pasted)
  • • Reasonable price for the market
  • • MOT history matches mileage claims

Warning Signs

  • • Only 1-2 blurry photos
  • • Price significantly below market value
  • • Seller refuses to meet in person
  • • Pressure to pay deposit quickly
  • • Mileage doesn't match MOT history
  • • No service history available
Arranging a Viewing

Safety First

  • • Meet in a public place if buying privately
  • • Tell someone where you're going and when
  • • View the car in daylight
  • • Take someone with you if possible
  • • Trust your instincts – if something feels wrong, walk away

What to Ask

  • • Why are you selling?
  • • How long have you owned it?
  • • Has it been in any accidents?
  • • Are there any outstanding issues?
  • • Is there any finance outstanding?
  • • Can I see the service history and MOT certificates?
Inspecting the Car

Visual Inspection Checklist

Exterior

  • □ Check all panels for colour match (respray?)
  • □ Look for rust, especially wheel arches
  • □ Check tyre tread depth (minimum 1.6mm)
  • □ Look for chips and cracks in windows
  • □ Check all lights work

Interior

  • □ Check for damp or mould smells
  • □ Test all electrics (windows, AC, radio)
  • □ Look for excessive wear on pedals/seats
  • □ Check mileage matches wear level
  • □ Look under carpets for water damage

Test Drive Tips

  • • Drive for at least 15-20 minutes
  • • Test at different speeds including motorway if possible
  • • Listen for unusual noises
  • • Check the brakes feel firm and even
  • • Make sure the car doesn't pull to one side
  • • Test all gears (including reverse)
Making an Offer & Payment

Negotiation Tips

  • • Research the market value before viewing
  • • Point out any issues you've found as negotiation points
  • • Don't be afraid to walk away – there are always other cars
  • • Ask if they'll include a warranty or recent service

Documents to Check

  • • V5C (logbook) – check the seller's name and address match
  • • MOT certificate (if over 3 years old)
  • • Service history/receipts
  • • Any warranty documents
  • • Spare keys
After You Buy
  • Register the car in your name: Complete the V5C and send it to DVLA within 2 weeks
  • Get insured: You must have at least third-party insurance before driving
  • Tax the vehicle: Tax doesn't transfer with the car – tax it immediately at gov.uk
  • Keep your paperwork: Store the V5C, service history and receipts safely – you'll need them when you come to sell
Know Your Rights

Buying from a Dealer

Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, the car must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described. You have 30 days to reject a faulty car for a full refund, or 6 months to request a repair or replacement.

Buying Privately

Private sales only require the car to be "as described." There's no legal requirement for the car to be roadworthy. This is why a thorough inspection and history check are essential when buying privately.

If Something Goes Wrong

Contact the seller first and explain the issue. If buying from a dealer and they won't help, contact Citizens Advice or Trading Standards, who can advise on your next steps.

Frequently asked questions
What should I check before buying a used car?
Before buying a used car, run a free car check to verify MOT history and mileage, inspect the vehicle in person during daylight, check the V5C logbook matches the seller, look for warning signs like mismatched paint or excessive wear, and always test drive for at least 15-20 minutes.
How do I avoid scams when buying a used car?
Never pay a deposit before viewing the car in person, meet in public places, verify the seller's identity matches the V5C, be wary of prices significantly below market value, and avoid sellers who pressure you to pay quickly or refuse to meet in person.
What documents should I get when buying a used car?
You should receive the V5C registration document (logbook), MOT certificate if the car is over 3 years old, service history and receipts, any warranty documents, and spare keys.
What are my rights when buying from a dealer vs private seller?
When buying from a dealer, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 protects you — the car must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described. You have 30 days to reject a faulty car for a full refund. Private sales only require the car to be 'as described' with no guarantee of roadworthiness.