Month: June 2024

Our ultimate used car buying guide..

Published by on
Posted in Cars

Touran R-line..Nice sporty looking family car

Step 1: Research

  • Identify Your Needs: Consider what you need from a car. Think about size, fuel efficiency, and your budget.
  • Set a Budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend, including insurance, taxes, and maintenance costs.
  • Research Models: Look for cars that fit your criteria and have a good reputation for reliability and cost-effectiveness.

Step 2: Where to Buy

  • Dealerships: Offer certified pre-owned options with warranties but may be more expensive.
  • Private Sellers: Can offer better deals but come with higher risks.
  • Online Marketplaces: Provide a wide range of options; however, always verify the seller’s credibility.

Step 3: Initial Checks

  • Vehicle History: Use services like checkamotor.co.uk to get a detailed report on the car’s history, including if it’s been in accidents, has outstanding finance, or has been reported stolen¹.
  • MOT Status: Verify the car’s MOT status and history to ensure it’s roadworthy².

Step 4: Viewing the Car

  • Exterior Inspection: Check for rust, damage, and the condition of tires.
  • Interior Inspection: Look for signs of wear, functioning electronics, and a clean engine bay.
  • Test Drive: Assess the car’s handling, brakes, and listen for any unusual noises.

Step 5: Professional Inspection

  • If possible, have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic to uncover any potential issues.

Step 6: Negotiation

  • Know the Market Value: Research the typical selling price for the car model and use this information to negotiate.
  • Be Prepared to Walk Away: Don’t be afraid to walk away if the deal doesn’t meet your expectations.

Step 7: Finalizing the Deal

  • Paperwork: Ensure all the necessary paperwork is in order, including the V5C registration document.
  • Payment: Agree on a payment method that is secure for both parties.

Step 8: After Purchase

  • Insurance: Arrange for car insurance before driving the car home.
  • Road Tax: Make sure the car is taxed or tax the car in your name before driving.

Using Checkamotor.co.uk

  1. Free Check: Start with a free check to get basic information about the car.
  2. Comprehensive Check: Before finalizing the purchase, opt for a comprehensive check to get detailed information about the car’s history, including any outstanding finance or serious issues¹.

Remember, buying a used car requires careful consideration and thorough checks to ensure you’re making a wise investment. Good luck with your car hunting!


(1) Motor Check – Check a Motor. https://checkamotor.co.uk/.
(2) Check the MOT status of a vehicle – GOV.UK. https://www.gov.uk/check-mot-status.
(3) Online Car Check: A Comprehensive Guide to buying Your Car – Safe and …. https://checkamotor.co.uk/online-car-check-a-comprehensive-guide-to-buying-your-car-safe-and-secure/.
(4) Car and Motorbike News – Check a Motor. https://checkamotor.co.uk/blog/.
(5) Buying a used car – the ultimate checklist | RAC Drive. https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/buying-and-selling-guides/buying-a-used-car/.
(6) 19 tips for buying a used car – MoneySavingExpert. https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/loans/buying-used-car/.
(7) The Ultimate Buying Checklist for Used Cars – GoodCar. https://goodcar.com/car-buying/used-car-buying-guide.
(8) Buying a Used Car in the UK: Avoid Scams and Find the Best Deals: The …. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Buying-Used-Car-UK-Ultimate/dp/B0BT7FZQFF.
(9) Buying a Used Car Checklist: The Ultimate Guide – Motors. https://news.motors.co.uk/buying-a-used-car-checklist-what-to-look-for/.