Free resource
Used Car Viewing Checklist
What to check before, during and after viewing a used car — written by a working garage that sees the consequences of skipped checks every week.
Call 020 7537 2447Woodseer Autos — Used Car Viewing Checklist
020 7537 2447 · woodseerautos.co.uk · 14 Copenhagen Place, London E14 7DF
1. Before you go
- Check MOT history at gov.uk/check-mot-history (look for repeat advisories)
- Check mileage consistency across MOT records
- Ask for service history — stamps, invoices, digital records
- Quick insurance quote to confirm the car is realistic to insure
- Check tax and ULEZ status if relevant
2. Exterior checks
- Paint colour matches across panels — mismatch can mean accident repair
- Run a hand over panels — feel for filler or uneven gaps
- Tyre tread and brand match — odd-brand mixes can hint at neglect
- All lights, indicators and number-plate lights work
- No cracks or large chips in the windscreen (especially driver's view)
3. Interior checks
- Start cold — check ALL warning lights come on then go out
- Engine management, ABS, airbag and brake warning lights must go out
- Seatbelts retract and lock correctly
- Electric windows, central locking, mirrors, air-con all work
- Damp smell, mould or wet carpets — possible leak or flood damage
4. Engine bay checks
- Oil level on dipstick — clean amber, not black sludge or milky
- Coolant level and colour — not contaminated with oil
- No obvious leaks, missing covers or aftermarket bodges
- No burning, fuel or coolant smell after a short run
5. Test drive signs
- Car pulls up straight under firm braking — no pulling to one side
- No squealing, grinding or shudder from the brakes
- Clutch bite point feels normal — not high or slipping under acceleration
- Gearbox shifts cleanly — manual or auto
- Steering tracks straight with no vibration at 30–50 mph
- No smoke under acceleration (blue = oil, black = fuel, white = coolant)
6. Questions to ask the seller
- Why are you selling it?
- How long have you owned it?
- Any work coming up — clutch, timing belt, brakes, tyres?
- Has it been in an accident or had bodywork done?
- Why is the next MOT/service due soon (if it is)?
7. When to walk away
- Seller won't let you take it on a proper test drive
- No V5C logbook present (or in someone else's name)
- Major warning light on that 'someone will reset'
- Heavy oil leaks, milky oil cap, or steam from the exhaust
- Price suspiciously low for the year and mileage
8. When to book a garage inspection
- Spending £3,000+ and you're not sure
- Diesel/DPF concerns or short-trip history
- Repaired bodywork — get a panel/paint check
- Cambelt history unclear on a belt-driven engine
Thinking of buying or selling?
Woodseer Autos can help with MOT, diagnostics, bodywork and repair checks.
Used car checks — FAQs
Quick answers to common questions.
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