Just checking

I am going to soon purchase a second-hand car from a Vauxhall main dealer. He says the car has been HPI checked as are all the second hand cars they sell. Do I need to make any more checks before purchasing the vehicle?

Asked on 13 February 2010 by D.R., Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Answered by Honest John

It’s vital to HPI check a car yourself again immediately before collecting it (on the day you collect it) to make sure it hasn't been mortgaged since the last HPI check. HPI only warrants its checks to the person who pays for them and only when purchased from HPI itself. Be particularly wary buying a car at a fleet discount where you do not get the V5C for six months or so. A dishonest dealer could take out a ‘log book loan’ on it and though you might be able to prove ownership before he defrauded the lender, it could still cause you a lot of hassle.

Tags: buying approved used used cars

Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:

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