10 Things to Look For When Buying a Used Car
Buying a used car can be an exciting step, but it’s also a big investment and you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money. At Summit Garage, we’ve been helping drivers across the West Midlands find their perfect cars for years. To make the process easier, here are 10 essential things to check before buying a used car.
1. Service History
Always ask for the car’s service history. A full or part-service history shows how well the vehicle has been looked after and gives you confidence that it’s been properly maintained.
2. MOT Certificate
Check the current MOT certificate and any advisory notes. This gives you insight into potential issues you may face in the near future. You can also look at past MOT history online to spot recurring faults.
3. Mileage
Look at the mileage and consider whether it matches the car’s age. The UK average is about 8,000–10,000 miles per year. Extremely low mileage might mean long periods of inactivity, while very high mileage means more wear and tear.
4. Exterior Condition
Inspect the bodywork for dents, scratches, or signs of rust. Uneven gaps between panels or mismatched paintwork can sometimes indicate past accident damage.
5. Interior Wear
Check the seats, dashboard, and controls. Excessive wear inside should match the mileage – if a “low-mileage” car looks heavily worn, something might not add up.
6. Tyres & Wheels
Look for tread depth (the legal minimum is 1.6mm, but more tread is safer) and check for even wear. Uneven wear could suggest alignment or suspension problems.
7. Lights & Electrics
Test all lights, indicators, windows, and in-car electrics like the air conditioning and infotainment system. Electrical issues can be expensive to fix.
8. Under the Bonnet
Even if you’re not mechanically minded, a quick look can help. Check oil levels and colour, coolant, and brake fluid. Leaks or unusual smells may point to problems.
9. Test Drive
A test drive is vital. Pay attention to how the car starts, accelerates, brakes, and handles. Listen for any unusual noises and make sure the steering feels responsive.
10. Dealer Reputation
Finally, buy from a trusted source. A reputable dealership like Summit Garage offers peace of mind with vehicle checks, warranties, and expert advice that you simply don’t get when buying privately.
Final Thoughts
Buying a used car doesn’t have to be stressful. By carrying out these checks, you’ll be in a strong position to make the right decision and avoid unwanted surprises later on. At Summit Garage, we have a wide range of quality used cars, all carefully inspected by our experienced team.
👉 Looking for your next car? Visit us in Dudley or browse our latest stock online.
