How to check a used car before you buy it

A used car can be a great deal if you know what to look at. Start with the documents: the VIN in the papers must match the VIN on the body and under the windscreen.

Body and paint

Walk around the car in daylight. Different shades of paint and uneven gaps between panels show that the car was repaired after an accident.

Engine and gearbox

Start the engine cold. Listen for knocks, check the exhaust smoke and make sure the gearbox shifts smoothly on a test drive.

• Ask for the service history
• Check the tyres and brakes
• Take the car to an independent service station