Free checklist: 20 things to check before buying a used car

The listing and the seller

The price is in line with comparable listings. A much lower price is a red flag.
The seller agrees to a viewing and a test drive, and answers your questions clearly.
Nobody asks for a deposit or bank transfer before you’ve seen the car.

Car-Pass: the mileage matches the odometer and earlier readings.
Registration certificate: the seller’s name and the chassis number match the car.
Certificate of conformity available (you need it to register the car).
Service book and invoices: regular servicing, timing belt replaced if it was due.
Recent “for sale” roadworthiness certificate, with no serious issues noted.
Euro standard (on the registration certificate): the car is allowed in the low emission zones you’ll drive in.
No outstanding manufacturer recall: a main dealer can check this.

Even gaps between body panels and no mismatched paint (signs of repair).
Tyres: same make on each axle, even wear, sufficient tread (1.6 mm legal minimum).
No rust on the sills, wheel arches and underside of the car.
Windscreen, windows and headlights free of cracks; all lights work.

On the road, the car tracks straight, brakes straight and changes gear smoothly.
A written order form, signed by both parties, with the price, mileage and date. Pay by bank transfer, and never hand over a large sum in cash.