Important documentation

It is vital that you get as much documentation as you possibly can when purchasing your new vehicle. The vital documents are the V5 logbook and a current MOT, unless the car is less then three years old or the seller has told you it doesn’t have one.

The more documents you get, the better. Past MOT certificates and invoices for servicing and parts give a good idea of whether the car has been cared for and if the mileage stated is genuine.

A service book that is full of dealership stamps indicate that the car has been well maintained. These can be fraudulently completed though, so it is a good idea to call the garages first to double check they have carried out the work before you buy the vehicle.

The V5 document is the most important document. It provides important information about the car, and is worth examining carefully.

• Check that the person selling the vehicle is the recorded keeper on the V5. If not, why? The seller may not be entitled to sell the car.
• Check the registration number, colour and the VIN and Engine numbers tally with the vehicle itself.
• Make a note of the previous keepers details so you can contact them to confirm the details of the car, i.e. mileage, condition and damage details.
• Be sure to see the original. If the owner can only provide a copy be suspicious.
• Check that the car is registered in the UK. If it has been imported it will be worth less.
• If the V5 has CT printed at the bottom, it may mean that it has had a private plate at some point.

If the seller can’t provide a V5, or it looks to be dodgy, be careful before buying. You may wish to seek further advice by calling the DVLA on 0870 240 0010.

From October 2002 it will be deemed illegal to sell a vehicle without a valid V5 document.