Buying a used car can be a smart financial decision, as it often provides great value for money and avoids the steep depreciation some new cars can experience, but it requires careful planning and thorough research.
Buying a used car can come with some risks, particularly if you're not sure what to look out for. Being well-informed can help you avoid some costly mistakes, whether you're buying from a dealer, auction, private seller, or an online platform.
Our comprehensive guide will take you through every step of purchasing a used car, from choosing where to buy to test-driving, inspecting paperwork, and understanding your legal rights.
Contents
- Buying a used car from a dealer
- Buying a used car privately
- Buying a used car online
- Buying a used car at an auction
- What to look for when buying a used car
- Questions to ask when buying a used car
- What to look for when test driving a used car
- What documents should I get when buying a used car?
- What to do after buying a used car
- Frequently asked questions
Buying a used car from a dealer
Most dealerships offer a range of used vehicles to choose from to suit various needs and budgets. One of the key advantages of buying from a dealer is the added security and legal protection. Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, any vehicle sold by a dealership must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described. This means you have legal recourse if something goes wrong after your purchase.
Many dealers also offer warranties, financing options, and part-exchange deals. Certified pre-owned (CPO) schemes are another benefit, offering cars that have undergone multi-point inspections and come with manufacturer-backed guarantees. These schemes tend to apply to nearly-new models, making them a safer option if reliability is a key concern.
However, buying from a dealer does come at a cost. Prices can be higher compared to private sales, as dealerships need to make a profit. If you’re taking out finance, compare the dealership’s offer with independent lenders to ensure you're getting the best rate.
Buying a used car privately
Buying a used car from a private seller can be an appealing option, especially if you want a lower price or a more personal buying experience. Without the overhead costs that dealerships factor into their prices, private sellers can often offer vehicles at a more competitive rate. You might also come across unique or older models that aren’t readily available at dealerships, giving you more variety in your search.
Another benefit of buying privately is the opportunity to speak directly with the previous owner. This can give you valuable insight into how the car has been used and maintained. A seller who has owned the car for a long time and taken good care of it may provide a full service history, receipts for repairs, and an honest account of the vehicle’s condition.
However, purchasing a car privately does come with more responsibility. Unlike buying from a dealer, private sales are not covered by the Consumer Rights Act, meaning the car doesn’t come with a warranty or any legal protection beyond being 'as described'. Because of this, it’s essential to carry out thorough checks before committing to a purchase.
Verifying the car’s MOT history and getting an HPI check can help uncover any outstanding finance, past write-offs, or theft records. A comprehensive test drive and, if possible, an independent inspection will also help ensure you’re making a sound investment.
Buying a used car online
The growth of online car marketplaces has made it easier than ever to browse and purchase used cars without setting foot in a dealership or meeting a seller in person. Many websites offer thousands of listings, often with detailed descriptions, high-quality images, and the option for home delivery.
Many online retailers offer a return period, allowing you to test the car and return it if it doesn’t meet expectations. Some platforms even provide vehicle warranties, adding extra peace of mind.
However, buying a car online without seeing it in person carries some risks. Photos can sometimes hide faults, so requesting additional images or videos can help you get a better look at the vehicle. If possible, arranging an independent inspection before finalising the sale can also prevent any surprises.
Buying a used car at an auction
Car auctions can be a great way to find a bargain, but they also come with challenges and potential risks. Vehicles sold at auction are often ex-fleet cars, repossessions, or trade-ins that dealers have chosen not to keep. Unlike buying from a dealership, auction cars are typically sold 'as seen', meaning there are no guarantees or return policies.
Before attending an auction, researching the types of cars available and their market value can help prevent overbidding. Many auction houses allow potential buyers to inspect cars before the bidding starts, so it’s worth arriving early to check for any visible issues.
While auctions can offer significant savings, they require confidence and experience. If you're new to the process, attending as an observer before making a bid can help you understand how it works.
What to look for when buying a used car
Buying a used car can be a great way to save money, but it’s important to carry out thorough checks to ensure you’re making a good investment. A car that looks good at first glance may have hidden issues, so taking the time to inspect key areas can help you avoid problems down the line.
Exterior
A car’s exterior can tell you a lot about how well it has been maintained. Start by walking around the vehicle and looking for any dents, scratches, or rust spots. Small cosmetic imperfections are normal for a used car, but extensive rust or poorly repaired damage could indicate a history of neglect or previous accidents. Check that all the body panels align properly. If they don’t, the car may have been in a collision.
Inspect the condition of the tyres, ensuring they have even tread wear and are free from cracks or bulges. Uneven wear could be a sign of alignment issues, which may lead to expensive repairs. Also, check that the lights, windows, and mirrors are intact and fully functional.
Interior
Once inside the car, assess the overall condition of the seats, dashboard, and controls. Look for excessive wear, stains, or tears, as these could indicate high mileage or a lack of care. Make sure the air conditioning, heater, and infotainment system are working correctly, as electrical repairs can be costly.
Check that all dashboard warning lights turn off after starting the car. If any remain on, this could suggest an underlying mechanical or electronic fault. Also, test the seatbelts, windows, and door locks to ensure they operate smoothly.
Engine
The engine is the core of a vehicle, so it’s crucial to inspect it thoroughly. Lift the bonnet and look for any leaks, frayed belts, or signs of corrosion. Check the oil level and condition; if it’s too low or looks dirty, it could suggest the car hasn’t been well-maintained. The coolant should be a bright colour and free of any oil contamination, which could indicate a head gasket issue.
When you start the engine, listen for any unusual knocking or rattling sounds. Excessive smoke from the exhaust could point to serious problems with the engine or emissions system. If possible, have a mechanic inspect the engine before making a final decision.
Mileage
Mileage can give you an idea of how much wear and tear the car has experienced. Generally, a car with lower mileage will have less overall wear, but this isn’t always the case. If the mileage seems unusually low for the car’s age, it's worth verifying that it hasn't been tampered with through clocking (the illegal practice of altering the odometer to make the car appear to have fewer miles than it actually does).
To ensure the mileage is accurate, it's important to compare it with the overall condition of the interior. If a car has very low mileage but significant wear on the pedals, steering wheel, or seats, this could indicate that the vehicle has not been accurately represented, and might raise concerns about clocking or other potential issues.
Always check the service history and MOT records on the Government website to ensure the mileage aligns with the car's age and condition.
Documents
Ensuring the correct paperwork is in place is just as important as checking the car itself. The V5C logbook should match the seller’s details and show how many previous owners the car has had. A high number of past owners in a short time could be a sign of ongoing problems with the vehicle.
The service history is also crucial. It should include receipts or stamps for regular maintenance, such as oil changes and brake replacements. A full-service history is ideal, but even a partial one can give you an idea of how well the car has been looked after. If the seller can’t provide any records, proceed with caution.
Vehicle History
A history check can reveal details that aren’t immediately visible. Running a vehicle history check through the DVLA or an HPI check will show if the car has outstanding finance, has been written off, or has a recorded theft status. This step is essential to avoid buying a car with hidden legal or financial complications.
Checking the MOT history is another useful way to assess the car’s reliability. Repeated advisories for the same issue could suggest ongoing mechanical problems that may become costly.
Modifications
While some modifications can enhance a car’s performance or aesthetics, others may affect insurance or cause issues with reliability. Check whether any modifications have been made and whether they have been declared to insurers. Poorly installed modifications such as lowered suspension or engine tuning can affect the car’s handling and longevity.
If the car has been modified, ensure the changes comply with UK regulations. Some modifications such as excessive window tinting or non-road-legal exhaust systems could result in MOT failures or legal complications.
By carefully inspecting all these areas, you can make an informed decision and avoid potential pitfalls when purchasing a used car. If anything seems suspicious or uncertain, consider seeking advice from a mechanic or walking away from the deal altogether.
Be aware of scams
When buying a used car, it's important to stay vigilant and be aware of potential scams that may arise during the process. Unfortunately, scams are all too common in the used car market, and some sellers may attempt to deceive buyers by misrepresenting a car’s condition or selling vehicles that have been stolen.
Be cautious if the seller is overly eager to make a quick sale, especially if they refuse to meet in person or hesitate to provide complete details about the car’s history. Keep an eye out for warning signs such as missing or inconsistent documentation, or offers to handle the transaction in ways that seem unusual, like asking for payment through untraceable methods.
Before finalising any purchase, be sure to conduct a thorough HPI check to verify the car's history and ensure there are no hidden issues, such as outstanding finance or theft.
Questions to ask when buying a used car
It's essential to ask the right questions when buying a used car to ensure you're getting a good deal and that the car is in a condition that matches the seller's claims. By asking the following questions, you can uncover valuable details about the car’s history and condition, helping you make an informed decision:
- Why are you selling the car?
- Can I see the service history?
- Has the car been involved in any accidents?
- Is there any outstanding finance on the vehicle?
- Can I take the car for a test drive?
- What is the car’s MOT history?
- Can I see the V5C registration document?
- Are there any known faults or issues with the car?
- Has the car been modified in any way?
- Are there any warranties or guarantees?
What to look for when test driving a used car
Taking a test drive is one of the most important steps to take when buying a used car. It allows you to assess the vehicle’s overall performance and gives you a feel for how the car handles on the road.
A well-executed test drive can reveal hidden issues that may not be obvious during an inspection. During your test drive, pay attention to how the car starts, how it accelerates, how the brakes feel, and how the suspension handles various road conditions. These factors will help you determine if the car is mechanically sound and if it feels right for your driving needs.
Starting the car
When starting the car, pay close attention to any unusual sounds. The engine should start immediately without any hesitation or struggle. Listen carefully for any strange noises like knocking, rattling, or grinding, as these could signal potential problems.
Once the engine is running, it should operate smoothly without any misfires, jerking, or excessive vibration. If the car feels unsteady or makes odd sounds, it may indicate an issue with the engine or other important components.
Braking and suspension
When testing the brakes, make sure the car stops smoothly and in a straight line. Listen for any unusual noises such as grinding or squealing, which could indicate worn brake pads and test the suspension by driving over bumps or rough patches in the road.
The ride should feel comfortable and stable, without excessive bouncing, rattling, or swaying. Any knocking sounds when turning or going over bumps could point to suspension problems.
What documents should I get when buying a used car?
It's important to ensure that you receive all the necessary documents to confirm the car's history, ownership, and legal status. These documents not only protect you as the buyer but also provide peace of mind that the vehicle is legitimate and roadworthy:
- V5C logbook: This document proves the car's ownership and registration details. Make sure the details match the seller's information, and check if they're the registered keeper.
- MOT certificate: This shows that the car has passed its MOT test and is roadworthy. Ensure that the car has a valid MOT certificate and check its history, including any advisories.
- Service history: This is a record of the car's maintenance and servicing, indicating how well it has been cared for over time. A full service history is ideal, but even partial records can be helpful.
- Proof of sale or receipt: This document confirms the transaction details, including the sale price, date, and both parties’ information. It's essential for future reference.
- Vehicle history report: If not already provided by the seller, it's worth running a vehicle history check to verify the car's past, including whether it's been written off, involved in an accident, or has any outstanding finance.
- Warranty or guarantee information: If the car comes with any warranty or guarantee, make sure to get the details in writing, including coverage and duration.
What to do after buying a used car
Once you've bought a used car, there are a few essential steps to take to ensure that you’re ready to hit the road safely and legally. While larger dealerships may handle some of these tasks for you, if you’ve purchased privately, you’ll need to arrange them yourself. This will not only keep you compliant with the law but also ensure your new vehicle is in great condition.
Receive the required documents
Before you drive away, make sure you have all the necessary paperwork. This includes the V5C registration document (logbook), which proves that the car is now legally yours.
The seller should provide you with the new keeper’s slip, and both of you must notify the DVLA of the change in ownership. If the car has a valid MOT certificate, service history, or warranty details, ensure you receive these as well.
Arrange insurance and road tax
Before taking your new car on the road, it must be insured and taxed. Car insurance is a legal requirement, so arrange your policy before you take ownership. Once insured, you can tax the car through the Government’s official website.
Keep in mind that tax doesn’t transfer from the previous owner, so this step needs to be completed before driving.
Book a vehicle health check or service
Even if you’ve bought from a dealership, it's a good idea to have your car checked over by a mechanic or book a full service, especially if it’s due. Many dealers ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, but an additional health check can help uncover any minor issues before they develop into costly repairs.
Regular servicing and vehicle health checks will keep your car in top condition and ensure it remains safe and reliable. If your next service is approaching, scheduling it early can help maintain its longevity.
Frequently asked questions
The best time to buy a used car in the UK is typically at the end of the month or during the colder months, such as in winter. Some dealerships may be more willing to negotiate prices as they aim to meet monthly sales targets. Also, demand tends to be lower during these periods, which can lead to better deals.
Buying a used car on finance is a great option if you want to spread the cost over a period of time. You can explore different finance options, such as Personal Contract Purchase (PCP), Hire Purchase (HP), or a personal loan. We offer flexible finance plans that are tailored to your budget and needs.
While cars with over 100,000 miles can still run well, it’s important to consider the vehicle's maintenance history, overall condition, and the reliability of the make and model. Some cars are known to last well beyond 100k miles with proper care.
When buying a used car, your rights vary depending on whether you buy from a dealer or a private seller. From a dealer, the car must be of satisfactory quality and as described, and you can return it for a full refund within 30 days if there are issues.
When buying privately, your rights are more limited, and the car must match its description, but you generally have less protection. Always inspect the car and ask questions before buying.
Find your perfect used car with Evans Halshaw
At Evans Halshaw, we aim to make buying your next used car as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Whether you're looking for a reliable vehicle, need assistance with finance, or just want expert advice, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Start your car-buying journey today by browsing our extensive range of used cars or reaching out to one of our friendly team members at your nearest Evans Halshaw retailer for more information.
