Questions to ask a used car seller
Asking the right questions, ideally before you travel, saves wasted trips and gives you a way to check the seller's answers against the car's records.
Before you travel
- What's the registration number? (So you can check the MOT history yourself.)
- How long have you owned it, and why are you selling?
- Is the V5C logbook in your name, at the address where I'll view the car?
- Is there any finance owing on the car?
- Has it ever been in an accident or written off?
- Does it have a service history, and when was it last serviced?
Check the MOT history before you ask
Free: every MOT, every defect explained in plain English, mileage, tax and ULEZ.
About the MOT history
- What was done about the advisories at the last MOT?
- Do you have receipts for that work?
- If the same item was advised several years running: has it been replaced?
- If the mileage readings don't rise steadily: can you explain why?
- If there's a gap between MOTs: was the car off the road?
About the car itself
- Are there any warning lights on, or faults you know about?
- When were the tyres, brakes and battery last replaced?
- For cars with a cambelt: has it been changed, and when?
- Are there two keys?
Before you agree a price
- Can I have the car inspected by a mechanic?
- Can I take it for a test drive? (You'll need to be insured.)
- How would you like to be paid? A traceable method protects both of you.
MOT defects mentioned here
More guides
General information for buying or selling a used car in Great Britain, not advice about a particular car. Rules can change: check GOV.UK for the latest on tax, MOTs and selling a vehicle, and have any car you're buying inspected by a qualified mechanic.