A good used vehicle can offer excellent value. The key is knowing what you are buying before money changes hands.
Start with the history
Check the service history, available invoices, mileage consistency and whether scheduled maintenance appears to have been completed.
Look at the vehicle before it is warmed up
A cold start can reveal noises, smoke, slow starting or uneven running that may be less obvious once the engine is warm.
Check dashboard warnings
Make sure warning lights illuminate during the normal ignition check and then switch off as expected.
Inspect wear items
Tyres, brake condition, suspension noises and fluid leaks can affect what you spend soon after buying the vehicle.
Road test it
Pay attention to steering, braking, transmission behaviour, vibration, noises and whether the vehicle tracks straight.
Scan when appropriate
A diagnostic scan can reveal stored or pending faults that may not yet have triggered an obvious symptom.