TAKE THIS TO THE VIEWING
A good viewing is more than a test drive. Check the documents, read the history and give yourself time to inspect the car before agreeing to pay.
Car Check
Our registration lookup is paused while the service is prepared. The guides and official links below are available now.
BEFORE YOU GO
Do the desk checks first.
A few searches can save a wasted trip and give you specific questions for the seller.
Vehicle details
Match the registration, make, model and colour to the advert.
MOT history
Note repeat advisories, failures and mileage changes to ask about.
Car history
Consider finance, theft and write-off records for a car you are serious about buying.
AT THE CAR
See it in daylight. Take your time.
Match the VIN with the V5C, inspect tyres and bodywork, test the controls and take a proper drive. Ask for service invoices and repair evidence. Consider an independent inspection if the condition or story is unclear.
01 Check VIN and V5C
02 Inspect tyres, brakes and body
03 Test drive and ask questions
04 Review service and repair records
05 Agree a traceable payment
THE DETAILS
Before you say yes.
What if the seller will not show the V5C?
GOV.UK advises you not to buy a vehicle without seeing its V5C. Pause the deal until the paperwork is available and matches.
Does an MOT pass replace an inspection?
No. The test records condition at a point in time. Faults can develop later, and it does not cover every part of a vehicle.
When should I walk away?
If the VIN differs, finance is unresolved, the seller will not provide paperwork or you are pressured to pay before checking, choose another car.
SHOPPING FOR A PARTICULAR MODEL?
Start with the car on your shortlist.
Our model guides turn the general checklist into practical viewing questions for five popular cars. The records still belong to the individual registration, so use both the guide and the car’s own history.
Volkswagen Golf
Confirm the exact version and the evidence behind its service history.
Also see the Nissan Qashqai and BMW 3 Series guides, or browse all model guides.