Buying a used car in the UK: checks before payment

Katerina Galkina · EN · 07/10/2026

Run checks before visiting

Ask for the registration number, make, model and MOT details. Use the GOV.UK used-car checklist ↗ to compare DVLA records, MOT status and safety recalls. A mismatch in the model, fuel or registration date needs explaining before you pay a deposit.

Read the MOT history ↗, including annual mileage, recurring defects, advisories and expiry dates. A valid MOT records the outcome of a test on a particular date; it does not replace an inspection of the car's present condition.

Inspect the car and documents

Ask to see the original V5C log book and compare its details with the vehicle, VIN and engine number. Establish who is selling, why, and whether service records, repair invoices, keys and documents for extra equipment are available. Do not rely solely on an advertisement's photograph of the log book.

For an expensive purchase, or if you have little technical experience, consider an independent inspection. Agree access and payment beforehand. Only test-drive after confirming insurance and your legal entitlement to drive that particular car. Save the advertisement and written answers because descriptions can disappear after the sale.

Calculate ownership costs

Before buying, obtain an insurance quote using the actual registration and truthful personal details. Check vehicle tax, parking near home, emissions-zone restrictions on likely routes, maintenance and upcoming work suggested by MOT history. A low purchase price with expensive necessary running costs can be less practical than a higher-priced alternative.

Ask for the final price and deposit refund conditions. A paid history check can help with outstanding finance or past damage, but read exactly what it covers and what responsibility the provider accepts. It is not an automatic guarantee against every possible problem.

Complete the purchase properly

Obtain a written sale record identifying the car, buyer, seller, price, date and stated condition. Collect the new keeper slip and follow the vehicle purchase steps ↗ to register the new keeper.

Do not treat the previous keeper's vehicle tax as your payment: GOV.UK requires you to tax the purchased vehicle immediately. Road use also requires appropriate motor insurance ↗. Before driving away, check the cover start time, registration, tax and keys. Pause the transaction if documents materially conflict or you are pressured to pay immediately.