Buying a used car? It’s common for new cars to lose up to 20% of their value as soon as they leave the showroom. That’s why second-hand cars are so popular. But if you’re buying from a private seller, it’s important to do your homework. Running a car history check is quick, cheap, and a good way to stay safe.
In this guide:
- What to look for when seeing the car in person?
- Why check a car's history?
- Has the car been in an accident?
- How to check a car's history online?
- Still not sure?
What to look for when seeing the car in person?
With sites like GumTree, Craigslist and CarGurus, many people buy cars without seeing them first. But viewing a car in person – even if it means travelling cross-country - can save you heartache and money down the road. Not only can you verify photos (ever heard of catfishing? Yep, car-fishing is a thing, too), you’ll get a 360° appraisal of the vehicle’s condition.
Here’s what to look out for on the day:
- Do the registration and chassis numbers match? If not, it might be a cloned car.
- Check the tyre tread: the legal minimum depth is 1.20mm (equivalent to a 20p coin). If they’re worn out and need replacing, has this been factored into the price?
- Compare the advertised mileage with the actual mileage – a sure sign of ‘car-fishing’ is when they don’t match.
- Ask to see the service history. Any reputable seller will have this info to hand, and amongst other things, it’ll flag when the cam belt was last changed. Faulty cam belts can cost thousands to repair and may even mean a new engine.
- Does the car have its original handbook? If yes, the previous owners probably took good care of it and you’ll have instructions if you need them.
- Can you take it for a spin? A road-test will give you a feel for comfort, and to see if the space suits your needs, for things like luggage, child seats, or your mountain bike.
When you’re happy, it’s time to run a car history check. Any seller worth their salt should let you mull the decision over before money changes hands. Find a quiet spot and a good internet connection.
Why check a car’s history?
After test-driving your dream car, it’s tempting to buy it right away. But checking its history can reveal hidden costs or problems. Here’s what a history check can show:
- Does the car owe money? If it does, you could be responsible for the debt, and the car might be taken away.
- Is the seller’s description accurate?
- Has the car been stolen? If yes, your insurance might be invalid, and the car could be taken away.
- What's the real mileage? Sometimes odometers are clocked back, especially with unregistered dealers.
Has the car been in an accident?
You want to know if the car has been in a crash. While you’d hope that a seller would be upfront, bodywork and paint jobs can gloss over a multitude of sins. Internal complications are even less obvious, and if the car has been written off, driving it is actually illegal. A history check will show if the car has been in a crash or written off before, even if it looks fine now.
How to check a car’s history online?
You can check your car’s history for free on the DVLA’s website. You’ll need:
- The registration number (on the number plate)
- The MOT test number
- The mileage
- The make and model
The DVLA’s vehicle checker will compare these details with their records. If some details don’t match, ask the seller for an explanation. If you think you’ve been misled, it’s best to walk away.
Still not sure?
If something’s still niggling, it’s best to look for another car. However, you can always run an independent report for extra peace-of-mind, which costs around £100-£200. These are done by motoring organisations and specialist companies. For advice on where to get one, contact the Motor Ombudsman.
Run the history check? Taken your new car for a spin? At this stage, you can feel confident in going ahead. When it comes to getting your car insured, we have a range of packages to suit your needs, from essential cover, to extras like courtesy cars and breakdown assistance. Find out more about AXA car insurance or get a quote today.
