Buying a used car can be brilliant for your wallet until it is not. While most sellers are honest, some will be a bit creative with the truth. These five red flags should make you slow down, ask better questions or walk away entirely.
Before you fall in love with the paintwork, remember how common serious issues really are.
- Outstanding finance: A large share of used cars still have money owed on them.
- Mileage fraud: A significant number have suspicious or clocked mileage.
- Fraud losses: Buyers can lose thousands of pounds when things go wrong.
1. Missing or Incomplete Service History
A well looked after car should come with a paper trail. That means a service book, stamps, invoices, MOT certificates and receipts for major work.
If the seller cannot find the history, only has a couple of random receipts or the story keeps changing, assume the car has not been cared for properly or that something is being hidden.
What you should always ask for
- Stamped service book or digital service records from main dealers or specialists.
- Invoices for timing belt, clutch, major services and repairs.
- Complete MOT history that matches the mileage in the advert.
Pro tip
Do not just glance at the paperwork. Read it. Check that mileages increase logically over time and that the garage names and dates make sense. A Carpeep vehicle history check pulls MOT data and mileage records together so gaps and inconsistencies are much easier to spot.
2. Fresh Paint and Panel Work That Does Not Add Up
Not all paintwork is bad. Bumper scuffs get repaired and small rust patches get treated. However, when you see mismatched shades, odd panel gaps or overspray on trim, you might be looking at undeclared accident damage.
Simple checks you can do in minutes
- Look along the sides of the car in good daylight and from different angles.
- Check panel gaps around doors, bonnet and boot for uneven spacing.
- Inspect rubber seals and plastic trims for paint overspray.
- Open doors and the boot and look for colour differences on inner edges.
"If the seller will not let you take your time inspecting the car properly, that is a red flag on its own. There are always other cars and other sellers who are not in a rush."
3. A Reluctant or Evasive Seller
Sometimes the biggest warning sign is not the car. It is the person selling it.
If the seller is pushing for a quick sale, refuses basic checks or will not meet you at a proper address, you should be asking why.
Warning signs to take seriously
- They insist on meeting only in public car parks with no home address.
- They pressure you to buy today or say others are on the way with cash.
- They refuse a pre purchase inspection or a long enough test drive.
- They are vague about how long they have owned the car or why they are selling.
- They only want cash and will not provide a proper receipt.
Reassuring signs from a genuine seller
- Happy to show the car at their home and match ID to the V5C.
- Open about the car's history, including faults and previous work.
- Comfortable with a professional inspection or extended test drive.
- Paperwork is organised and ready to view.
4. Mileage That Seems Too Low for Its Age
Everyone loves the idea of a little used car with tiny mileage. In reality, suspiciously low mileage is often a sign that the odometer has been clocked.
Mileage fraud is still common and it is one of the easiest ways for a dishonest seller to add thousands to a car's price.
Warning on clocked mileage
Many used cars show signs of mileage tampering or inconsistency. Carpeep automatically compares recorded MOT mileages and flags any jumps, drops or odd patterns in seconds so you do not have to play detective with spreadsheets.
How to spot mileage that does not make sense
- Use MOT history to check mileages rise steadily with no drops.
- Look at pedal rubber, steering wheel and gear knob. Heavy wear on a low mileage car is a giveaway.
- Check seat bolsters, carpets and door handles for signs of long term use.
- Make sure service invoices and stamps match the mileage and dates on the advert.
5. Outstanding Finance or Write Off History
This is the big one. If you buy a car with outstanding finance, the finance company can legally repossess it even if you paid in full and had no idea.
If the car has been written off, you also need to know exactly what category it was and whether the repair was safe and properly documented.
Outstanding finance and write offs
If you buy a car with live finance you could lose both the car and your money. UK law protects the finance company more than an innocent buyer. A proper history check shows outstanding finance, write off categories and whether the car is safe to insure before you hand over any payment.
Non negotiables before you buy
- Run a full vehicle history check that includes finance, theft and write off data.
- Walk away immediately if the seller gets defensive about running a check.
- If finance is shown as settled, ask for written proof from the finance company.
Key Takeaways
The smart buyer's checklist
- Never buy without seeing proper, consistent service history.
- Inspect the body carefully for signs of poor or hidden repairs.
- Pay attention to the seller's behaviour. If they seem evasive, move on.
- Always verify mileage using MOT history and physical wear.
- Run a comprehensive Carpeep vehicle check before you transfer any money.
Final Thoughts
Finding a used car you love is exciting, but excitement is expensive if it makes you ignore basic red flags.
Take your time. Ask awkward questions. Do not be afraid to walk away if something does not feel right. A low cost Carpeep report and a careful viewing can save you thousands and a lot of stress later on.
Remember
There are millions of used cars in the UK. The right one will not need rushed decisions, vague stories or missing paperwork. Take the extra few minutes to run the checks. Your future self and your wallet will be glad you did.
