Buying a used car

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RAC's Used Car buying Checklist

1. Set a budget and stick to it!

2. Make a list of questions to ask before going to buy the car – then record the answers and ask the seller to sign and date the document.

3. Always check the car's registration document (V5) to validate ownership and accuracy of the vehicle’s age and mileage. Does the condition of the car reflect its stated age and mileage?

4. Check that the engine/chassis numbers match the documentation.

5. Test drive the car - but ensure that appropriate insurance is obtained.

6. Don’t rely on the MOT as evidence of a car's condition.

7. Check beneath the bonnet and boot for oil leaks, welds, untidy seams or other evidence of accident repairs. Does the colour and texture of the paintwork match all over and are the lights and electrics in working order?

8. Check for rust and paint bubbles particularly on the sills, wheel arches, seams, door bottoms and suspension mountings.

9. The interior of a car can tell you a lot. A badly worn interior can indicate a high mileage.

10. Buy a vehicle status check to see whether it’s been stolen, has been written off or has outstanding finance and get an independent vehicle examination to check it’s mechanically sound!

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