Do's and don'ts of private car sales

Do insist on seeing the registration document and check the name of the present keeper (the registration document shows the registered keeper and not the legal owner):

• Is the seller the registered keeper? If not, why are they selling it for someone else?
• Does the registration document have a watermark?
• Does the seller have a current MoT certificate and certificate of insurance?

Do check that the colour, model and VIN (Vehicle Inspection Number) match the car you're buying and the registration document.

• Check the VIN plate (stamped onto the body in the engine compartment) for signs of tampering.
• Check that any VIN numbers etched on the glass match those on the VIN plate and registration document.
• Check all areas of glass for signs of deliberate scratching.

Do check the locks for damage, or for differences between locks that suggest they may have been replaced.

Do investigate the car with an AA Used Car Data Check (0800 234 999).

Do arrange for an AA Vehicle Inspection before you agree to buy (0800 783 4610). You'll be given a detailed report usually within 24 hours that will inform your decision and provide a useful bargaining tool.

Do walk away if you're not completely happy.

Don't buy a car on "private sale" terms if you suspect the seller may be a dealer. If you ring for details, say you're calling "about the car you advertised". If the seller has to ask which car they may be a dealer.

Don't be pressured into buying. Set a price limit before you bargain and stick to it. Your budget should include the cost of insurance, tax and any work that may be needed.

Don't let the owner bring the car to you view it at their home, in daylight.

• Does the seller really appear to be the owner?
• Are they familiar with the vehicle controls?

Don't hand over money until satisfactory arrangements for collecting or taking delivery of the car have been made. Check for everything included in the price, especially any work the seller agreed to carry out.

Don't be afraid to bargain many sellers will have allowed for haggling in setting a price.

Don't forget the rule "let the buyer beware".