What to check before buying a used car

Buying a used car always carries some risk. You can reduce it by checking the car to a plan and not rushing to pay a deposit. Here is what to do before handing over the money.

1. Documents

• The registration certificate should be in the seller's name, or the seller should have a power of attorney.
• The VIN in the documents must match the VIN on the body and under the windscreen. Signs of welding or repainting near the number are a warning sign.
• Ask for the service history: receipts and service book entries.

2. Vehicle history

Check the car by plate number and VIN in open state vehicle registration data and in vehicle history services. Compare the year, colour, engine size and number of owners with what the seller says.

3. Body

• Inspect the car in daylight, not in the evening or in the rain.
• A paint thickness gauge reveals repainted parts: a difference in paint thickness between neighbouring panels means repair work.
• Look at the gaps around doors, bonnet and wings — uneven gaps often remain after an accident.
• Check sills, wheel arches and the underbody for rust.

4. Engine and suspension

• Start the engine cold: it is easier to hear unusual noises and spot smoke.
• Check the engine bay for oil and coolant leaks.
• On the test drive, check that the car does not pull to one side, that there are no knocks in the suspension and no jerks when shifting gears.

5. A pre-purchase check at a car service

Even if everything looks fine, the safest option is to show the car to a mechanic. A pre-purchase inspection usually includes a computer error scan, a lift inspection and a check of the suspension and brakes. An hour at a service is better than paying for hidden repairs later.

Tip: agree with the seller on a joint visit to a service before paying any deposit. A refusal is a reason to be cautious.

You can book diagnostics at a car service in Kovel online in the Veylo Telegram bot — pick a service and a convenient time without phone calls.