What precautions should I take when buying privately?

Hi, I have found a second hand car that I really like; however it is from a private individual, not a garage. What checks should I do to make sure this car is what the seller says it is? I'm concerned about buying a stolen car, or a car that still has finance on it, will a Cartell.ie check tell me if that is the case? Other than that, and having an idependent mechanic check the car, is there anything else I should do?

Thanks in advance for your help.

Dawn Higgins (Edenderry)

Aug 2013 Filed under: miscellaneous

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Expert answer

Hi Dawn,

Yes, getting it checked by Cartell.ie should flag up whether there is anything dodgy in the car's history. Have a look through the service book too and maybe have a ring around the various garages where the car has been looked after.  If the car was regularly serviced and/or they know the owners, that should be a good sign. 

If you're still concerned, get the AA to inspect it for you. They go through second hand cars with a fine tooth comb and will flag up any potential issues.

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe