A short, methodical look over the car before you talk price can save you from a costly mistake. Here's what's worth checking.
Common checks to do
A simple once-over covering the areas that matter most.
Check gaps between panels are even, and look for slight colour mismatches which can indicate previous repair work.
Look closely around wheel arches, sills, and the boot floor, common places for rust to start.
Check tread depth and even wear across all four. Uneven wear can point to suspension or alignment issues.
Have a look underneath for oil leaks, fluid stains, or obvious damage on the underside.
Test windows, lights, indicators, air conditioning and the infotainment system while the car is stationary.
Check the seats, steering wheel and pedals feel consistent with the mileage on the clock.
Ask to see it, and check the name and address match the seller. The V5C is not proof of ownership on its own, but a mismatch is worth asking about.
Check the VIN plate matches the V5C, and look through the service book or digital records for stamps and receipts.
Message the seller directly through DriveGrid to arrange a time.
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