When buying a used car, it’s crucial to get the paperwork right for a smooth transfer. This means checking the car’s registration, service records, and MOT history to make sure everything’s in order. It’s also important to understand the legal steps needed to transfer ownership, like sorting out tax and insurance. Getting these details right helps avoid any issues down the line.
V5C Registration Document (Logbook):
This is the most important document. It shows the registered keeper of the car and its history. Ensure the details match the car you’re buying, including the registration number, VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), and the seller’s details. When you buy a car, the ownership needs to be transferred to you. The dealer should complete the relevant section of the V5C to notify the DVLA of the change of ownership.
If the dealer is handling the transfer of ownership online, you might not get the physical V5C document immediately. However, you should receive a confirmation, such as a new keeper supplement (V5C/2) or a confirmation email from the DVLA. This serves as proof of your new ownership until the updated V5C arrives in the post.
Do not take possession of the car without at least some form of documentation confirming the change of ownership. Without this, you have no legal proof that you are the registered keeper. Be wary if the dealer is unable or unwilling to provide the V5C or a new keeper supplement at the time of sale. It’s a red flag if they ask you to take the car without any proof of ownership transfer.
MOT Certificate:
The MOT certificate is essential as it proves the car has passed the necessary tests to be deemed roadworthy. Check the expiry date of the current MOT and look for any advisories that might need attention.
Service History:
A complete service history provides a record of maintenance and repairs. It’s a good indicator of how well the car has been looked after. This can be in the form of a service book, invoices, or digital records. If you are buying a car from a dealer, they will normally provide you with a branded booklet which will hold all of your documents together.
Car Manual:
The car’s manual contains important information about the vehicle, including how to operate its features and the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. This can usually be found in the glovebox of the car.
Receipt of Sale:
Once you decide to purchase the car, make sure you get a receipt from the seller. This should include the date of sale, the car’s details (make, model, registration number), and the terms of the sale.
Car Insurance:
While not a document provided by the seller, ensure you have arranged car insurance before you take ownership and start driving the car. Using day insurance (also known as temporary or short-term car insurance) when buying a used car can be a cost-effective strategy, especially if you need some time to shop around for a cheaper insurance quote.
Road Tax:
Road tax is no longer transferable between owners, so you’ll need to tax the car before you can legally drive it. The easiest way to tax a vehicle is online at the DVLA website. You can do this as soon as you’ve taken ownership of the vehicle. To tax your vehicle online, you’ll need a 12-digit reference number from the new keeper supplement (V5C/2).
Once you’ve taxed your vehicle, the DVLA will send you a confirmation email. There’s no longer a need to display a tax disc on your vehicle; the DVLA and police use an electronic database to keep track of taxed vehicles.
You can check the tax status of your vehicle at any time on the DVLA website using the vehicle’s make and registration number. This is useful for confirming that your tax payment has been processed. Road tax takes effect immediately when you apply online. So, you can legally drive the vehicle as soon as you’ve completed the process.
Warranty Documents:
If the car comes with a warranty, either from the manufacturer or an extended warranty from the dealer, ensure you have the relevant documents and understand what is covered.
Vehicle History Check Report:
If you’ve conducted a vehicle history check, keep a copy of this report. It provides valuable information about the car’s past, including any finance owing, accident history, and previous ownership.