| Here are the top three standard checks to make for | | | | boot and bonnet. Is the metal work in good |
| each area of a used car. They will help you identify | | | | condition? Wherever there is exposed metal you |
| any misuse or signs of neglect or accident damage. | | | | need to look for ill-matching colours or buckling. These |
| INTERIOR - Do all the controls, switches and displays | | | | are signs of an accident |
| work properly? - Do all the lights work? - Are the | | | | ENGINE - Is the exhaust smoke-free when the |
| carpets and seats all dry? If not, is there a leak? | | | | engine is warm? If not, there may be a problem - Is |
| BODYWORK - Is the bodywork free from dents, | | | | the coolant reservoir full of brightly coloured coolant? |
| scratches and rust? - Make sure you are not | | | | It should not be empty or brown. If not, are there |
| checking the car in the wet or the dark, as you are | | | | any leaks that need further inspection? - Is there |
| more likely to miss problems - Squat down and look | | | | plenty of clean oil in the engine? |
| along the sides of the car to help you spot mild | | | | TEST DRIVE - Does the car drive in a straight line |
| dents - Pull back rubber seals around windows. Is the | | | | when you loosen your grip on the wheel? - Is the |
| paintwork free from over-spray and suspect repair | | | | steering accurate and free from play or judder? - |
| signs? - Look for signs of additional layers of paint, or | | | | Does the car pull away and brake easily without any |
| ill-matching spray marks where an additional layer of | | | | noises or judder? If you are unable tick one or more |
| paint has been added but the finish is not right. | | | | of the boxes, the car should be inspected by a |
| These are signs of an accident repair - Open the | | | | qualified mechanic. |