Used car checklist: what to check before you buy

Last updated 1 November 2026. Based on the GOV.UK guide Check a used vehicle you're buying.

What should I check before buying a used car?

Before you pay for a used car in the UK, check five things: the MOT history and mileage, the V5C logbook, that the VIN and engine number match the logbook, that there's no outstanding finance, write-off or stolen record, and the car itself on a test drive. The first three are free. The finance, write-off and stolen records need a paid history check.

Before you go to see the car

1. Ask the seller for the registration number, make, model and MOT test number. A seller who won't share the registration is a warning sign.
2. Check the details match DVLA's records with the free GOV.UK vehicle information service: make, colour, tax and MOT status.
3. Check the MOT history. Every test result, mileage reading and advisory is free on GOV.UK. Look for mileage that goes down, long gaps between tests and the same advisory coming back every year.
4. Check for safety recalls with the GOV.UK vehicle recall service.
5. Run a history check for outstanding finance, insurance write-offs and stolen records. These aren't public, so they need a paid check. Car Control's Premium report covers all three for £6.99, including VAT.

At the viewing: the V5C logbook

Ask to see the V5C registration certificate (logbook) and check it carefully:

• It should have a "DVL" watermark.
• The serial number must not be between BG8229501 and BG9999030, or between BI2305501 and BI2800000. GOV.UK says logbooks in these ranges might be stolen: call the police when it's safe to.
• The details on the logbook should match what the seller told you, and the registered keeper should be the person selling the car. If not, ask why.
• The logbook also shows the number of previous keepers. See how to check how many owners a car has had.

At the viewing: VIN and engine number

Find the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the car, usually at the bottom of the windscreen and on a plate inside the door frame or under the bonnet, and check it matches the VIN on the logbook. Do the same for the engine number. A VIN that doesn't match, or looks tampered with, can mean the car is cloned or stolen.

Test drive and inspection

• Look at the car in daylight, when it's dry and with the engine cold, so starting problems and smoke aren't hidden.
• Check that the wear on the seats, steering wheel and pedals matches the mileage. The average mileage calculator shows if the mileage is high or low for the car's age.
• Ask for the service history and receipts, and check the mileage on them against the MOT readings.
• If you're not confident checking the car yourself, pay for an independent inspection.

After you buy the car

• Tax it straight away. Tax doesn't pass to the new keeper. You need the green "new keeper" slip from the logbook.
• Make sure it's insured before you drive it, and check it's on the Motor Insurance Database.
• Once a car is 3 years old it needs an MOT every year. The MOT due date checker shows when the next one is due.

Quick checklist