Does the car have the V5 vehicle registration document? This proves keepership not ownership but it's the best place to start.

Is the seller the registered keeper shown on the log book (v5) or registration document.

Are there any spelling mistakes on the registration document?

Do the VIN number, engine number and colour match what's on the V5. Vin numbers can often be found etched onto the glass, or on a plate under the bonnet.

Does the number plate match what's on the V5? Do the number plates match front to back! Has the VIN plate been taken off or tampered with? The same applies for glass - has there been any buffing or stickers out on to obscure VIN numbers.

Does the car have a current valid MOT certificate and certificate of insurance? If not why not?

Mileage

Does the mileage roughly tie in with the age of the car? Does it appear older than the mileage? Are the pedals worn or is the steering wheel shiny. Do the seats look older than you would expect? These can indicate a high mileage.

Do the numbers line up properly on the analogue mileometer. Is the mileage in miles or kilometers?

Does the mileage match the service book records?

Accident Damage?

Is the paint finish even across the car? Are there bumps and ripples?

Can you see spray paint on door handles, window seals and mouldings?

Has the car colour changed. Check inside the bonnet, and hard to reach places for colour matching.

Are there poor welds under the bonnet or in the boot?

Do the garage names on the front and rear number plates match?

Are the names on the plate from a bodyshop or accident repair centre?

Safety

Don't test drive the car if you are unsure!

Check you are insured to test drive it first.

Are all the tyres in good condition?

Do all the seatbelts operate correctly? Check there are no cuts or fraying, and that the mechanism works.

If airbags are fitted, Make sure the warning lights go out after you start the car. Pasenger airbags can often be deactivated - the light wil normally stay on to tell you this.

Drive the car

Are the brakes even or does it take a lot of effort to stop?

Are there any unusual noises when you brake?

Does the handbrake work OK.

Is the steering heavy? Can you feel it vibrate or pull to one side, especially at higher speeds.

If ABS is fitted, does the warning light go out after the engine is started?

Does it feel right- loose steering and a few rattles are often a sign of age- but if you expect it to have felt better than it does, chances are you are right!

Engine

Are there any abnormal noises when the engine is started from cold?

Was the engine warmed up before you arrived?

Does the oil warning light go out as soon as the engine starts?

Is the oil pressure gauge showing OK.

Are there any warning lights on the dashboard.

Does the exhaust blow out excessive emissions?

Watch out for black smoke on diesels and excessive blue smoke on petrols. If in doubt consult a mechanic.

Is the clutch in worn? If you hear a noise when you press down on the clutch, the bearing may be worn and likely to fail. If the clutch engages high up, you may need to have it replaced.

Is there sludge on the underside of the oil filler cap? This could indicate poor servicing or lots of short journey use - both can lead to premature engine wear.

Is the oil level correct?

Has the cam belt been replaced recently. Cam belt failure can lead to severe engine failure and huge expense. Consider replacing it if you are not sure.

Locks and Windows

Do all the locks, including central locking and remote control, work properly? Do the key fobs operate the doors.

Do all electric windows work.

Have you got all the master keys. Many modern cars have a master key for the immobiliser which can be very expensive to replace. Consult the handbook for details.

Basics

Do your homework before you go - look at forums, road tests and anything you can find.

Don't buy cars off the side of the road.

Don't meet a seller at a pub car park!

Do a HPI or Experian Check.

Don't take wads of cash with you.

If you are inexperienced at buying cars, take somebody with you. They can give you moral support if you feel you are being pressured too.

Go with your gut. If it looks like a dog and drives like a dog - walk away!