What to check for when buying a car

Car safety is important whether you are driving by yourself or if you have your family in the car with you so whether you are buying a new car or a used car there are a number of things that you should check before you complete the deal to make sure it is safe for everyone. 

Buying a new car

* If you are collecting your new car or you are having it delivered it is important to be able to inspect it in daylight if at all possible. If you are unable to do so and it is dark or wet then you should record that on the sales invoice stating that you have not been able to carry out a complete inspection. 

* When you do inspect the car check all the body panels, bumpers and windows and ask if the car has been repaired. You might be surprised to know that many new cars get damaged in transport and have to be repaired. If you don’t ask you will never know. 

* Carefully examine the interior and that everything appears as it should including the seat fabrics, trim, dashboard and so forth. Make sure that there is no sign of dampness on the floor.

* Ensure that all the options you have requested are present and function and read the pre-delivery inspection form. 

* Don’t sign paperwork until you are completely satisfied. 

* Make sure that you understand how to operate all of the car’s functions; get the salesman to talk you through them all.

Buying a used car

* Always take somebody with you to view the car. If you are buying from a private seller make sure that you view the car at their place of residence. 

* Ensure that the condition of the car is as described in the advertisement and insist on seeing the service record. If a service record isn’t available ask why, and if you don’t receive a satisfactory answer don’t complete the purchase.

* Check that the stated mileage is realistic and that the car hasn’t been clocked. You can get an idea by looking at mileages recorded on receipts, the service history, and MOT certificates. Also ensure that the general condition of the car reflects the stated mileage.

*Check the rest of the paperwork including the current MOT certificate and the V5C vehicle registration certificate ensuring that the details match the car and the VIN (vehicle identification number). 


* Always insist on taking the car for a test drive, but make sure that insurance is in place for you to do so. If the seller can’t provide you with temporary insurance contact your own insurance company. When test driving the car, try to drive it under different conditions such as in-town and on a dual carriageway. Make sure that you are happy with how it feels and that the brakes don’t pull to one side. 

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