A good used car is usually easy to recognise once you know where to look. Work through the car in the same order every time: documents first, then the outside, the inside, under the bonnet and finally the drive.

Start with the papers

  • Registration certificate (RC): the chassis and engine numbers should match the car.
  • Insurance: check the type, the expiry date and whether any claims were made.
  • Service records: dates and odometer readings should rise steadily.
  • Loan: if the RC shows hypothecation, ask for the bank’s NOC.
  • Pending traffic fines can be checked online against the registration number.

Walk around the outside

  • Look along each side in daylight for ripples or mismatched paint, which suggest repairs.
  • Uneven gaps between doors, bonnet and boot can mean accident damage.
  • Check the tyres: even wear across the tread, the same brand on an axle, and the manufacturing date on the sidewall.
  • Look under the car for oil drips and heavy rust.

Inside the cabin

  • Wear on the steering wheel, pedals and driver’s seat should match the kilometres shown.
  • Test every switch: windows, mirrors, AC (cold within a minute or two), lights, horn and infotainment.
  • A damp smell or silt under the carpets can point to water damage.

Under the bonnet

  • Engine oil should not be milky or very dark and gritty.
  • Look for leaks, cracked hoses and a battery with corroded terminals.
  • Listen to a cold start: rattles that fade quickly can still be worth asking about.

If you are not confident, bring a mechanic you trust. A good seller will welcome an independent inspection.