Buying a Used Car in Manchester: The Complete Checklist
From history checks to test drives — the checklist we use ourselves before buying any car.
Buying a used car is one of the biggest purchases most people make. This is the checklist our team uses before any car reaches the DMS forecourt.
Before you visit
- Run a history check (outstanding finance, write-offs, mileage discrepancies)
- Check the MOT history online — look for repeated advisories
- Compare prices for the same model, year and mileage
Paperwork
- V5C logbook matches the seller and the VIN on the car
- Service history — stamps, invoices and dates that make sense
- Number of keys
Bodywork and paint
- Look along panels for ripples and mismatched colour
- Check panel gaps are even
- Inspect for stone chips and swirl marks — a sign of how the car was kept
Mechanicals
- Cold start — listen for rattles
- Look for warning lights on the dash
- Check tyres for uneven wear (alignment issues)
Test drive
- Brakes pull straight, gearbox shifts smoothly, no knocks over bumps
Get it audited
If you are unsure, book a DMS Vehicle Audit — we inspect the car and give you a written report. See car care & auditing or browse our cars.
