Used cars are popular with many searching for their ideal vehicle – a way to save money whilst still having the extras and perks of a new model. To get the best deal you should be aware of what to look for and the right questions to ask.

To guarantee you’ll buy the best car for your needs we’ve compiled 10 top tips – 5 questions to ask a seller and 5 things to look out for before and on viewing day.

What you should ask a used car seller

Be confident when you’re viewing a car and don’t be pressured into making a decision to quickly, prepare yourself with the following questions to ask on the day:

What’s the MOT and service history?

This should be one of the first questions on your list, as it will indicate if a car has been well cared for. Ask to see the full service history (and if it is patchy, ask why), MOT certificates and if any repairs have had to be carried out. The service history will also show you if there are any unresolved issues with the vehicle which might cost you money in the long run.

Can I see the V5 document?

This document is vital because it will show you who owns the car, if the name differs you should ask why they are selling it on someone else’s behalf. The V5 will also show you how many owners the car has had, which should match up with what the advert said.

Is there any warranty or finance attached to the car?

Cars that are just a few years old may have residual warranty which you can benefit from, ensure this is transferred to you when you buy the car. Also it is important to double check any finance agreements attached to the car, you don’t want to be liable for anyone else’s debt.

Have any modifications been made?

Checking modifications are particularly important if you’re buying a mobility or wheelchair accessible vehicle as they should have been installed correctly and safely. Other cars may have also had modifications made to the bodywork, wheels or glazing that you should check are secure and in good condition.

Can I take it for a test drive?

Apart from checking the car is in good working order, a test drive is essential to know if you’re comfortable driving the car. When booking the viewing check that the seller has time for a test drive too, and be cautious if they’re not keen to do one.

What to check for on a used car

Check the car inside and out, and take someone with you to help too, the seller should also be willing to show you around the car during the viewing.

Do the electrics work?

Modern cars rely on a raft of electrics and if they’re not in good working order they can be expensive to fix. During a test drive and viewing check that the following work:

• All lights
• Radio and any sat nav system
• Wipers and screenwash
• Automatic windows
• Accessibility aids
• Other extras such as heated seats and automatic wing mirrors

Is the car mechanically sound?

Open the bonnet and check the oil and coolant levels and if you can spot any leaks, bodged repairs or mechanical issues. During your test drive check that wheels, brakes, steering and the clutch are all in good working order. If the car judders or makes a noise whilst you drive it then you could have issues with the catalytic converter or the suspension down the line. 

Judge it by its cover - check the bodywork

The bodywork can reveal a lot about a car – for example different colour panelling could suggest the car is a cut and shut (two cars welded together). Give the car a thorough once over to check for scratches, dents, changes in paint work and rust.  

What’s the mileage?

Make sure the mileage on the dial tallies with what the listing says, and question the seller if it does not. Does the car seem to have very low mileage for the age? Cars tend to do around 10,000 miles a year so make sure the numbers tally up, and ask why they don’t.

Perform a vehicle check

Thanks to the internet it is very simple to do a vehicle check if you’re serious about buying a car. The DVLA offers a free MOT check using just the make and number plate. This extra peace of mind is free and will help you buy a car with confidence.

At Singlewell we offer the highest standards for our used car buyers with all vehicles sold receiving an MOT and service alongside a rigorous pre-delivery inspection. An RAC warranty is included as standard to give you extra peace of mind.

Browse our range of used cars, including ex-mobility and WAVs, and buy your next vehicle with confidence.  

MORE HELPFUL RESOURCE

• Why buy a Caddy from us?
• What to look for when buying a used disabled vehicle
• Fitness tips for wheelchair users
• The Singlewell guide to driving with a disability
• Five wheelchair-friendly days out across the UK
• Best vehicles to adapt for disabled use