We have provided some general advice below that we advise you to read before purchasing any vehicle.

• Always carry out a vehicle data check to establish whether or not the car you are about to buy has any outstanding finance or if it has been written off or stolen in the past.

A vehicle data check with no adverse data does not guarantee the vehicle will be problem free. To help reduce the risk you should follow our guidelines. If you or the vendor cannot meet any of these guidelines you should reconsider the transaction.

• We recommend that you carry out a mechanical examination before purchase.
• The vehicle must have a full new style DVLA (Driver Vehicle Licensing Agency) or DVLNI (for Northern Ireland) Vehicle Registration Document (V5C).
• Do not accept an old style V5 Registration Document as from 1 July 2005 these have been replaced by the new style V5C, a four-page document.
• The vehicle must have a valid MOT certificate where applicable. Check the status of a new style MOT Test Certificate on www.motinfo.gov.uk.
• Check the data supplied carefully against the vehicle and the V5C, including the engine number.
• Check that the VIN, or chassis number, on the VIN plate (found in the engine compartment) and the VIN (stamped onto the car body shell) match the number recorded on the V5C. If you have not already provided the VIN, you should call Customer Services as soon as you have the information and before you purchase the vehicle.
• Private sale - you must purchase from the registered keeper. You should visit the address given on the V5C and check the ID of the seller, such as a passport and a recent utility bill. All these details must correspond. Obtain a receipt, showing the vendor's details and signature, the vehicle details, including mileage, the date and the price paid.
• Motor dealer - visit the premises to ensure it is a genuine sales area. Motor dealers do not normally conduct a legitimate business from a private address. Reputable dealers should be members of a trade association. Look out for Retail Motor Industry Federation signs. Ans obtain a VAT receipt with full company details.
• Do not allow a vendor to bring the vehicle to you, and do not meet them in a car park or other neutral ground.
• You must question the reason for a vehicle being sold below the current market value. A 'quick sale' may not be all it seems.
• If you believe the vehicle is covered by a manufacturer's warranty we suggest you contact a franchised dealer, quoting the registration number and VIN, to verify this.