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Motor Vehicles

Checklist When Buying a Used Car

  • CHECK the general condition of the car inside and out. Look for evidence of accident damage repairs such as off shade paint, sprayed-over filler and overspray on trim parts. Ask the seller if the vehicle has been involved in any accidents.

  • CHECK for general wear and tear. Is it consistent with the recorded mileage? Look for underbody damage or excessive rust.

  • CHECK condition of tyres. Don't forget the spare.

  • CHECK for sloppiness in the steering.

  • CHECK the responsiveness of the brakes and the pedal effort required.

  • CHECK the gearbox for precision of gear change. Does it stay in gear or jump out?

  • CHECK the clutch pedal movement and take up. There should be no clutch judder.

  • CHECK the general condition of the engine, noise levels and exhaust smoke. Are there any strange rattles? Excessive blue or white fumes from the exhaust mean problems.

  • CHECK hoses and pipes for leaks and splits.

  • CHECK horn, windscreen wipers and washers, lights and indicators (try all lights at the same time for earthing and condition of battery).

  • CHECK for excessive noises and clunks.

  • CHECK that the window winders or electric windows work and that the door and boot locks all function properly.

REMEMBER: Always test drive the car yourself

   

Gloucestershire Trading Standards, Hillfield House, Denmark Road, Gloucester GL1 3LD
 t: (01452) 426201 - f: (01452) 426274 - e: tradstds@gloucestershire.gov.uk - Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 5.00pm (We do not close for lunch)
 

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