Top 10 questions you need to be asking when buying a used car

Are you in the market to purchase a second-hand car? This is a list of the most important questions to ask when buying, to reduce the risk of buying a dodgy motor.

Buying a used car can be very daunting, however with some specific questions, you can build a clear picture of the vehicle and its past.

This list has been put together after years of working within the motor industry. If there is ever any alarm bells or gut feelings about something not right, do not be afraid to walk away or investigate your concerns further.

1.       Why are you selling the vehicle?

This is the main one to ask when buying privately. Most of the sales out there are genuine reasons, but it may shed some light or make apparent some work due soon or a problem that needs repairing.

If you are buying from a dealer, ask where the vehicle has come from. Some dealers sell part exchange vehicles, others source them privately and some use auctions.

2.       What’s the Mileage?

The mileage is a huge factor in the pricing of the vehicle, but also what the vehicle has been used for. As a general rule of thumb, the higher the mileage the lower the cost. so unscrupulous car sellers might manipulate the reading to look lower. This is much harder on modern cars, but always ask what the mileage is in case the seller gives the wrong figure.

This can be double-checked against the GOV website in the MOT history - https://www.gov.uk/check-mot-history 

Do bear in mind, a lower mileage car, which has sat neglected may not be a better option over a higher mileage car which has been regularly maintained.

3.       What Service History does it have?

Asking about a vehicle’s service history is key in forming a picture of how well the vehicle has been maintained, also It can show any gaps in servicing or things to note it may need in the near future.

Does it have a full history? When was the last Service?

The answer may not be hugely detailed, especially if the current owner didn’t know the previous keeper. However, it will determine how well it’s been looked after.

4.       What are the tyres and brakes like?

Tyres and brakes are the most important part of any vehicle, however, they seem to be overlooked so often. Have a good look at the tyres, making sure they have good tread depth but also there is no damage present.

You should also ask them when the brakes had last been inspected and or changed. On a test drive listen out for any metal-on-metal sounds which could be the brakes and steering wheel wobble this could mean the brake discs or pads are damaged.

5.       Is there any scheduled maintenance due?

Cars have numerous parts which are called consumables, and over time need replacing due to wear and tear. Some parts are used under they no longer work, others are changed as regular intervals to avoid failure.

Asking the owner or the dealer if anything needs replacing soon, could highlight any concerns, but also allow you to negotiate on the price.

One of the key things to find out if you’re buying a petrol or diesel car (including hybrids) is whether the engine is chain or belt drive. If its belt driven, cambelts need replacing periodically every few years or after a specific mileage. This is a big job that shouldn’t be delayed or neglected, and you don’t want to be left with an immediate bill if it hasn’t been done. Plus, if the previous owner neglected this fundamental aspect, what else did they fail to attend to in good time?

Also, ask when the gearbox fluid was changed/is due for renewal if the car is automatic. If you’re looking at a manual car, look out for any indication of clutch replacement, feeling for judder, or a high biting point when pulling away.

6.       Can I get a Vehicle History Check? (HPI Check)

HPI checks will uncover further information such as if the vehicle has been stolen, written of previously by an insurer, or has any outstanding finance on it. It will also confirm details such as the number of doors, colour, VIN Number, and make and model.

Many dealers will have done this on all their vehicles, but given they are not too expensive it’s good practice to complete your own too.

7.       Can I have the car inspected?

If you are not confident, nor feel like you have the knowledge of vehicles to inspect a vehicle thoroughly yourself, you can organize a third-party inspection. There are several companies across the UK that offer this service. Again, if the seller is to object to this then it could mean they are hiding something.

8.       Can I take the car on a test drive?

It’s of paramount importance you take a used car for a drive before buying it. Even if you have minimal experience, it could highlight some serious issues. Listen out for noises/clunks which shouldn’t be there, ensure the vehicle drives straight and true, and the steering feels correct.

Also, if you have never owned a vehicle like this before, then it’s a good chance to see if it’s the one for you.

Try to go to the following to highlight certain areas of the vehicle – speed bumps will highlight any issues with the suspension. Getting onto a motorway doing 70mph will highlight any steering/braking issues. (Feel for pulling to one side or judders through the steering wheel, respectively).

9.       Can I see all the paperwork?

The two most important documents you want to see are the V5C (logbook) and the service history. The V5C has the owner’s details, so you can check they own the car, while the service history shows you where and how often the car has been serviced.

Any other paperwork that’s available will offer further peace of mind, such as receipts for repair work and replaced parts. More paperwork tends to mean a car has been better cared for.

It’s also a good sign if the car has the owner’s handbook; this can be replaced if it’s missing, but careful owners tend not to misplace the manual.

10.   What warranty do you offer?

Second-hand car dealers offer a variety of warranty options. Many will give a three or six-month warranty as standard, with the option of paying for additional cover, often through third-party warranty companies.

Check how extensive the coverage is and if it’s worth extending or increasing the cover levels.

Buying privately, unfortunately, you will not receive any warranties/rights so it’s down to you to ensure the vehicle has been inspected thoroughly.