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Buying a used car privately: the checks to do before you pay

Updated 29 Oct 2026

Ask for the registration number, make, model and MOT test number before you view the car. Check these details against DVLA information, read the free MOT history, inspect the V5C log book and compare the vehicle identification number (VIN) and engine number with it. Before paying, check for outstanding finance and take a test drive. After buying, tax the vehicle immediately.

Before you view the car

Ask the seller for:

Use these details to check the car against DVLA information on GOV.UK. Check that the details you were given match the information held by DVLA.

Read the car’s free MOT history on GOV.UK. It shows MOT passes and failures, mileage, failed parts and minor problems. Citizens Advice says it also shows gaps in testing.

Check that the MOT status and history match what the seller told you. Check the MOT mileage, and consider a private history check if you have concerns about it. For more on the limits of MOT history, see our guide to what MOT history does not show. You can also read our guide to mileage checks.

Check whether the vehicle has been recalled because of a serious safety issue.

You can also consider a private history check. Citizens Advice says a private history check can cost up to £20, checked 29 Oct 2026. It may show whether:

Citizens Advice suggests meeting at the seller’s home, so you have a record of their address if something goes wrong. If you suspect the seller has given you fake details, do not buy the car.

At the car

Ask to see the V5C log book before you buy. DVLA advises that you should not buy a vehicle that does not have a V5C. Citizens Advice also says: “Never buy a car without the log book.”

Check that the V5C:

Find the VIN on the car and compare it with the VIN on the V5C. Check the engine number in the same way. The VIN and engine number should match the log book.

Look at the V5C serial number. GOV.UK lists two ranges where the V5C might be stolen:

These ranges are an indicator only. If the V5C falls within either range, call the police as soon as it is safe to do so.

You can inspect the car and take a test drive. If you are still unsure about its condition, consider an independent inspection.

If the car is a repaired written-off vehicle, GOV.UK suggests using an independent expert or engineer to check for structural damage. Category S and N vehicles can be repaired and used again. DVLA records the category in the log book.

If you are considering a previously written-off car, get an insurance quote before buying it and tell the insurer about the write-off.

Before you pay

Check finance before handing over money. A private history check may show whether the seller still owes money on the car. Citizens Advice has guidance on a car that is still on hire purchase.

Finish every check in this guide before you hand over any money.

Your rights if something is wrong

A private sale can mean fewer protections than buying from a business. Citizens Advice Wiltshire says that a privately sold car should be true to the advert and to what the seller told you. It also says you are not entitled to something simply because the car is faulty or the seller failed to mention something in the advert.

Keep a copy of the advert and your messages with the seller. If you discover a problem after buying, ask Citizens Advice what may apply to your private sale.

After you buy

Tax the vehicle immediately. You need the green “new keeper” slip from the V5C to do this.

The change of keeper can be registered online. The seller gives you the green new keeper slip. If the postal route is used, the seller sends the V5C to DVLA.

When your new V5C arrives, check that all details are correct.

Sources

See a car's MOT history

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