Questions to Ask When Buying a Used Car

"Can I have the registration number now so I can check the MOT history?"

Why ask: Any hesitation here is a red flag. MOT history is public — there's no reason to withhold it.

"When does the current MOT expire?"

Why ask: Verify this yourself on MotR or GOV.UK after getting the reg.

"Has it had any MOT advisories recently?"

Why ask: A seller who openly discusses advisories and has receipts for the work is trustworthy.

"Has the car ever failed an MOT? If so, what was fixed?"

Why ask: Failures are normal — the response and repair quality matter.

"Is the mileage genuine to your knowledge?"

Why ask: This puts it on record. If they say yes and the MOT history says otherwise, you have their misrepresentation.

"When was the last service and do you have stamps or digital records?"

Why ask: Service records validate mileage and maintenance claims independently.

"When was the cambelt or timing chain last replaced?"

Why ask: A cambelt failure can destroy an engine. Critical on any car approaching 60,000–80,000 miles.

"Has it had any major mechanical work? If yes, who did it and do you have invoices?"

Why ask: Invoices from reputable garages validate repairs and indicate responsible ownership.

"How long have you owned this car?"

Why ask: A seller who's owned it for 2 weeks should explain the short tenure.

"Why are you selling it?"

Why ask: Listen carefully. Urgent financial need, 'it needs a little work', or vague answers warrant further investigation.

"How many previous keepers are shown on the V5C?"

Why ask: Frequent keeper changes can indicate repeated issues being passed on.

"Has it always been UK-registered or has it been imported?"

Why ask: Imported cars may have had different standards, odometer units (km vs miles), or hidden history.

"Is there any outstanding HP, PCP, or lease finance on this car?"

Why ask: If yes and unpaid, the car can be legally repossessed from you. Always run HPI to verify.

"Is the car registered in your name and are you the legal owner?"

Why ask: The seller must be the legal owner. If not, ask why and verify with the V5C.

"Has the car ever been declared an insurance write-off (Cat A/B/S/N)?"

Why ask: A no answer that's later proven false is grounds for fraud. Get it in writing.

"Will you provide a written receipt listing everything you've told me?"

Why ask: Honest sellers agree readily. A refusal or unusual hesitation is a significant warning sign.

"Has it been in any accidents, even minor ones?"

Why ask: Even minor repairs can affect future MOT performance and resale value.

"Are there any warning lights showing on the dashboard?"

Why ask: Ask this before viewing. A seller who says 'no' but there are lights on when you arrive has misled you.

"Is there anything I should know about the car that I haven't asked?"

Why ask: This open question sometimes reveals important information a seller was hoping not to volunteer.

"Does the air conditioning work?"

Why ask: AC regas costs £50–£100 and compressor failure can cost £500+. Worth knowing before purchase.