What to Ask When Buying a Car

Sometimes the excitement of a new car means logic goes out the window and impulse takes over. Asking the right questions can help you slow down, spot potential problems and decide whether a vehicle is right for you.

Whether you’re buying privately or from a dealer, use this checklist before travelling, during the viewing and before paying.

1. Questions to ask before arranging a viewing

Why are you selling the car?

There are plenty of genuine reasons to sell, from changing jobs to needing more space. Listen to the explanation and consider whether it matches the rest of the seller’s story.

How long have you owned it?

Short ownership isn’t automatically a problem, but it is worth asking why the car is being sold again so soon.

Are you the owner, and are you entitled to sell it?

Ask whether the seller is the registered keeper and whether the car belongs to them. The V5C registration certificate identifies the registered keeper — it is not proof of ownership.

If someone is selling on another person’s behalf, ask for evidence that they are authorised to do so.

Is there any outstanding finance?

Ask this directly, then consider a paid vehicle history check that includes a finance check. If finance is outstanding, do not rely on a promise that it will be cleared after you pay. Confirm the settlement arrangements with the finance company before proceeding.

Has it ever been written off, damaged or repaired after an accident?

Ask about insurance write-offs, accident repairs and other significant damage. A clear history report does not guarantee that a car has never been damaged.

Link: Understanding categorised cars and what to check before buying.

Are there any known faults or modifications?

Ask about warning lights, intermittent problems, oil or coolant loss, electrical faults and changes from the original specification. Modifications can affect insurance, so check with your insurer before buying.

2. Questions about service history and maintenance

Can I see the service history and repair invoices?

Look for records showing dates, mileage and the work completed. A stamped service book is helpful, but invoices can give you more detail. Where possible, verify digital service records with the relevant garage or manufacturer.

When was it last serviced, and what is due next?

Ask about upcoming work rather than just past repairs. Tyres, brakes and major scheduled maintenance can make an apparently cheap car expensive.

Has the timing belt been replaced, if this engine uses one?

Replacement intervals vary by engine, age and mileage. Ask for evidence and check the manufacturer’s schedule. If the engine uses a timing chain, don’t assume it can never need attention.

How long is left on the MOT?

Check the MOT history yourself on GOV.UK. Look for repeated advisories, mileage inconsistencies and recurring failures.

An MOT pass is not a guarantee of the car’s current condition or future reliability.

3. Questions to ask at the viewing

Can I see the original V5C?

Compare the registration and vehicle identification number (VIN) with the car and your history report. For a private sale, viewing at the registered keeper’s address can help you check that the details are consistent. Ask about any discrepancies before proceeding.

Can I see it start from cold?

Ask the seller not to warm the engine before you arrive. A cold start may reveal starting problems, unusual noises or smoke that are less obvious once the engine is warm.

Does everything work?

Check the lights, windows, locks, air conditioning, infotainment and other fitted equipment. Look for warning lights that remain illuminated after starting.

For electric cars, ask about battery health, remaining battery warranty, charging performance and included charging cables.

Can I arrange an independent inspection?

An inspection is particularly useful for an expensive, unfamiliar or previously written-off vehicle. A refusal is a reason to pause and consider whether you want to proceed.

4. Questions about the test drive

Can I take a test drive, and am I insured?

Check that your insurance covers driving this particular vehicle and that the seller agrees. Do not assume your existing policy covers other cars — especially comprehensively.

During the drive, pay attention to:

• Steering that pulls to one side or vibrates.

• Unusual engine, suspension or gearbox noises.

• Brakes that feel uneven or cause vibration.

• Difficulty changing gear or signs of clutch slipping.

• Warning lights, overheating or loss of power.

Choose a safe route that lets you assess the car at different speeds without rushing.

5. Questions before paying

What is included in the sale?

Confirm the number of keys, documents, accessories and any agreed repairs. If buying from a dealer, ask about the warranty’s coverage, exclusions and claim process. A warranty does not replace your statutory rights.

Can we put the agreement in writing?

Get a receipt recording the vehicle registration, agreed price, date, buyer and seller details, and any important promises or disclosed faults. Keep a copy of the advert and relevant messages.

How will payment and handover work?

Agree a secure payment method and clear handover arrangements. Verify payment details carefully, and be cautious about requests to pay a different person or unfamiliar third party.

Avoid paying for a vehicle you have not inspected simply because someone claims other buyers are waiting.

Warning signs worth walking away from

• Pressure to pay immediately or skip checks.

• Refusal to provide documents or allow an inspection.

• Conflicting answers about ownership, mileage or damage.

• A price far below similar vehicles without a convincing explanation.

• Requests for deposits before a viewing through unfamiliar payment links.

One warning sign does not prove fraud, but you do not have to continue if something feels wrong.

Frequently asked questions

Should I get a vehicle history check?

Consider investing in an HPI Check or another reputable paid vehicle history report. Check what the report actually covers, including finance, theft and recorded write-offs. It does not replace a physical inspection or establish repair quality.

Are my rights different when buying privately?

Yes. Buying from a dealer generally gives you stronger consumer protections. Private purchases have fewer protections, although the seller must have the right to sell the vehicle and it must match its description. “Sold as seen” does not remove every legal obligation.

Should I leave a deposit?

Only once you are comfortable with the vehicle and seller. Get written terms explaining what the deposit secures and when it is refundable. Do not assume every deposit can be reclaimed if you change your mind.