Checks to do before you buy
- MOT history — check online via the DVLA's free MOT history checker for past advisories, failures, and mileage recorded at each test.
- Vehicle history check — run a check to confirm the car hasn't been previously written off, isn't subject to outstanding finance, and hasn't been reported stolen.
- Registered keeper details — confirm these match who you're buying from.
- Service history — ask for the full service record, and if anything's missing, check with the garage that carried out the work if possible.
Get your quote
Get your quote →Know your legal protection before you buy
This depends entirely on who you're buying from. Buying from a dealer gives you real protection under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 — a full refund right in the first 30 days if there's a fault, and further protection up to 6 months and beyond. Buying privately gives you almost none of this. See our full guide on used car warranty for the complete breakdown of what protection you get in each case.
WORTH KNOWING
If you're buying privately, "sold as seen" is standard, and your legal recourse if something goes wrong is far more limited than buying from a dealer. This is exactly the situation where a warranty tends to add the most value.
During the viewing and test drive
- Take the car for a proper test drive, not just around the block
- Check all electrics work — windows, lights, infotainment, air conditioning
- Look for uneven tyre wear, which can indicate alignment or suspension issues
- Ask direct questions about any warning lights, past accidents, or known issues
Should you get a warranty?
Once you've done the checks above and you're happy with the car, it's worth thinking about whether an extended warranty makes sense for your situation — particularly if you're buying privately or the car is older/higher-mileage. See our full guide on is a car warranty worth it for the decision framework.
Frequently asked questions
What's the most important check before buying a used car?
A vehicle history check (to rule out outstanding finance or a write-off) and the MOT history are two of the most important, alongside confirming who you're actually buying from.
Do I have the same rights buying privately as from a dealer?
No — buying privately gives you far less legal protection under UK consumer law than buying from a dealer.
Should I always get an extended warranty on a used car?
Not necessarily — it depends on your situation. See our guide on whether a car warranty is worth it for the full decision framework.
What if the seller can't provide a full service history?
It's worth asking why, and checking with the garage listed in the partial records if possible. A patchy service history is also worth factoring into your decision on whether to get a warranty.