Driveway checklist

Car you're going to view

Walk around the car and tick any DEFECTS or FAULTS you find. Ticking an item calculates your negotiation target or flags a walk-away warning.

VIN checks — the windscreen and door-pillar plates must match the V5C logbook exactly.
MOT & mileage consistency — compare the odometer with the online MOT history.
Engine oil sludge — creamy residue under the oil cap can mean a failing head gasket.
Panel gaps & rust — uneven gaps hint at crash repairs; check arches, sills and the underbody.
Test drive — cold start, smooth gear shifts, straight steering and quiet brakes.

Optional: enter a registration to personalise checks

Check History Before You Buy (carVertical)

Uncover hidden write-off status, outstanding finance, stolen records & mileage tampering before viewing.

Run Full Vehicle History Check

Instant Official Report | Optional Paid Service

Ready to buy your first car?

Walk around the car and tick any DEFECTS or FAULTS you find. Ticking an item calculates your negotiation target or flags a walk-away warning.0/17 checks answered

VIN match
Check the windscreen / door pillar VIN plate matches the V5C logbook exactly.
Mileage check
Verify the dashboard odometer aligns with recent MOT history records.

Realistic Negotiation Target

£0

Cosmetic & wheel flaws: £0
Minor mechanical wear (0 flagged): £0

💡 Tip: Sellers expect minor wear on a first car and won't pay for a full spray job. Use these flaws to justify a sensible, rounded offer (e.g. offering £2,700 on a £3,000 listing).

⚠️ Legal & Inspection Disclaimer: This checklist is provided for informational and educational purposes only as a basic visual guide for buyers. It does not constitute a professional mechanical assessment, MOT, or structural safety inspection. Insure My First Car accepts no liability for undisclosed defects, mechanical failures, vehicle history discrepancies, or losses arising from vehicle purchases.