Check

Essential checks: MOT history (free at gov.uk) for mileage and issues, HPI check (£20-40) for finance, stolen status, and write-offs, service history verification, test drive (15-20 minutes), and pre-purchase inspection (£100-200) by independent mechanic. These checks cost £150-300 total but can save £2,000-£10,000.

Yes, absolutely. An HPI check (£20-40) reveals: outstanding finance (7% of used cars have this), stolen vehicle records, insurance write-offs (Cat S/N), and mileage discrepancies. Even from dealers, run your own check - if finance is outstanding, the finance company can repossess the car even after you paid.

Check free MOT history at gov.uk showing annual mileage readings - mileage should increase steadily each year. Red flags: mileage decreases between tests, unusually low annual increases, or large jumps followed by small increases. Also check service book stamps match MOT mileage and wear matches claimed mileage.

Category A: Scrap only, must be crushed. Category B: Severe damage, body crushed, parts sold. Category S: Repairable structural damage, worth 20-40% less. Category N: Non-structural damage, worth 10-25% less. Cat S/N cars are legal to buy but ensure professional repair proof and reflect lower value in price.

For 2012+ cars: Run digital service history check (£20) through manufacturer databases to see all dealer services. For older cars: Request receipts, call listed garages to verify, cross-check with MOT history. If no verification possible, treat as 'no service history' and deduct 15-30% from market value.

Free MOT history at gov.uk shows: annual mileage readings (spot clocking), pass/fail status, failure reasons (recurring problems), advisory notices (upcoming issues), and test dates. Red flags: multiple failures for same issue, structural rust, emissions failures, or upcoming expiry.