Your Complete UK Car Guide

Essential checks include: HPI check (£20-40) to reveal outstanding finance, stolen status, and write-off history; free MOT history check at gov.uk for mileage verification; service history verification for 2012+ cars; and a physical inspection or pre-purchase inspection (£100-200). These checks can save you thousands by revealing hidden problems.

Typically 5-15% on dealer used cars and 10-20% on private sales. Factors affecting discount potential include: how long the car has been listed (45+ days = more flexible), faults found during inspection, missing service history (deduct 15-30%), and timing (end of month/quarter offers best leverage).

An HPI check (or vehicle history check) reveals if a car has outstanding finance, has been stolen, written off, or has mileage discrepancies. Yes, you absolutely need one - around 7% of used cars have outstanding finance, and buying one means the finance company can legally repossess it even though you paid.

You need the V5C registration certificate (logbook), proof of MOT (for cars over 3 years old), service history, and a valid insurance certificate before driving. The seller should also provide a receipt with both parties details and the sale price.

March and September are best when new registration plates are released, causing dealers to discount older stock. December and January can also offer good deals as dealers try to meet year-end targets. End of month (28th-31st) is also good for negotiating as salespeople need to hit targets.

Clean and prepare your car thoroughly, get it serviced if due, fix minor issues, gather all documentation and service history, take high-quality photos, price competitively based on market research (check AutoTrader, eBay sold listings), and be prepared to negotiate. Private sales typically get 10-30% more than trade-in or dealer offers.