TAKE IT TO THE VIEWING
Check the car. Keep your questions. A practical checklist for your phone. Mark each item, note concerns and copy or print your record. This is not an inspection, diagnosis or guarantee of condition.
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Vehicle / viewing reference (optional) Viewing date (optional)
20 items to review. There is no pass score.
Before travelling Get the registration, make and model; compare them with DVLA information. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Review MOT history, recorded mileages, failures and advisories. Ask about repairs. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Check the official recall guidance for outstanding safety issues. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Arrange a daylight viewing and write down questions about history and condition. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Documents and identity Ask to inspect the original V5C; compare its vehicle details with the car and official guidance. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Compare the vehicle identification number on the car with the paperwork. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Review service invoices, dates, mileages, keys and the seller’s explanation of missing records. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Consider a reputable separate provenance check for matters such as finance or recorded write-offs; free MOT data is not a complete history check. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Walk around Look in good light for panel differences, corrosion, leaks and signs of repairs. Record concerns. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Look for obvious tyre damage, uneven wear and mismatched specifications; have uncertainties assessed. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Look over glass, mirrors, lights and accessible fittings. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Try the controls, windows, locks and other equipment with the seller’s permission. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Engine and test drive Ask whether the engine is cold before starting and record unusual noises, smoke or warning lights. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Ask about fluid levels and leaks. Do not open a hot cooling system or touch hot or moving parts. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Arrange a lawful, insured test drive only with permission; assess normal operation without risky tests. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
If agreed, record a scan report with a suitable tool. Do not clear codes or treat a clean scan as proof of condition. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Before deciding Ask for unresolved concerns to be explained and consider an independent professional inspection. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
List immediate repair, maintenance and ownership costs before committing. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Keep the advert, agreed details and receipt. Do not be rushed into payment or a deposit. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Use official guidance on registration, insurance and vehicle tax before driving away. Not checked Checked / no concern noted Concern / follow up Not applicable
Questions and notes
Free official checks first These official information links are not affiliate links. Guidance reviewed 20 October 2026. Follow the current official advice; a V5C identifies the registered keeper and is not proof of ownership.
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AUTOXPERT UK