Buying a used Vauxhall can be a great way to get a practical, well-equipped car without paying the price of a brand-new vehicle. From compact hatchbacks such as the Corsa to family favourites like the Astra and SUVs such as the Mokka and Grandland, there are plenty of options available across the UK used car market.
However, as with any used car, knowing what to check before handing over your money is essential.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the most important things to consider when buying a used Vauxhall, including choosing the right model, checking its MOT and service history, inspecting the vehicle and completing the purchase.
If you’re already looking for your next car, you can browse Vauxhall cars for sale on Vauxhall Trader.
Vauxhall has been one of the most familiar car brands on British roads for decades, with models covering everything from small city cars to family hatchbacks, estates and SUVs.
One of the biggest advantages of shopping used is choice. Depending on your requirements and budget, you can find petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric Vauxhalls across a wide range of ages and specifications.
Buying used can also allow you to avoid some of the depreciation associated with purchasing a brand-new vehicle.
The important part is finding the right car rather than simply the cheapest one.
Before browsing adverts, consider what you actually need from the vehicle.
The Corsa is a compact hatchback that’s particularly well suited to commuting, town driving and drivers who don’t require large amounts of interior space.
Its popularity also means there is usually a wide choice of used examples available.
If you need more space, the Astra is a popular all-rounder. It offers additional passenger and luggage room while remaining manageable for everyday driving.
It can make a sensible option for families, commuters and drivers covering longer distances.
The Mokka offers a higher driving position and compact SUV styling without being excessively large.
It may suit drivers who want something more substantial than a conventional hatchback while still needing a vehicle that’s easy to use day to day.
For buyers needing additional passenger and luggage space, the Grandland sits further up Vauxhall’s SUV range.
Before deciding, compare several vehicles rather than becoming attached to the first advert you see. Mileage, age, specification, service history and condition can make two apparently similar cars very different purchases.
You can compare currently advertised vehicles through our Vauxhall cars for sale section.
One of the easiest checks you can make before viewing a used Vauxhall is its MOT history.
The UK Government provides a free online MOT history checker.
Using the registration number, you can see information including previous MOT results, recorded mileage and issues identified during previous tests.
Pay particular attention to:
An MOT history containing advisories isn’t automatically a reason to reject a vehicle. Used cars naturally require maintenance.
However, repeated problems can give you useful clues about how well the car has been maintained.
You should also make sure the information supplied by the seller matches official records.
The Government’s DVLA vehicle information service can provide information including the vehicle’s:
Check these details against the advert and the vehicle itself.
If something doesn’t match, ask the seller why before proceeding.
When viewing the vehicle, ask to see its V5C registration certificate, commonly called the log book.
Check that the vehicle details correspond with the car you’re viewing.
You should also compare the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the car with the information shown on the V5C.
The Government recommends checking the V5C as part of the process when buying a used vehicle.
Never rely solely on photographs of paperwork when you’re able to inspect the documents yourself.
A well-documented service history can tell you a great deal about how a Vauxhall has been looked after.
Ask the seller whether the vehicle has:
Don’t simply look for stamps in a service book. Receipts and invoices can provide additional evidence of work that has actually been carried out.
Service history becomes particularly important as vehicles get older or accumulate higher mileage.
Walk around the entire vehicle in good daylight where possible.
Look carefully for:
Small cosmetic marks are normal on used cars, particularly older examples.
More significant inconsistencies may justify further investigation.
You should also check all four tyres for tread depth, damage and uneven wear.
The condition of the interior can provide useful clues about how the vehicle has been treated.
Check the seats, steering wheel, dashboard and controls.
Make sure equipment works correctly, including:
Switch the ignition on and pay attention to warning lights. They should illuminate as expected and then go out appropriately after the engine starts.
Mileage shouldn’t be considered in isolation.
A higher-mileage Vauxhall with comprehensive maintenance records may potentially be a better purchase than a lower-mileage example that has been poorly maintained.
Compare the mileage displayed on the dashboard against previous MOT records.
A vehicle’s MOT history provides recorded mileage from previous tests, making it easier to identify unusual changes or inconsistencies.
Also consider how the mileage relates to the condition of the vehicle. Excessive wear on the driver’s seat, steering wheel and pedals can sometimes be inconsistent with an unusually low recorded mileage.
Before buying, check whether the vehicle has an outstanding safety recall.
The Government provides a vehicle safety recall checker, which allows you to search using the vehicle registration number.
If there is an outstanding recall, establish what work is required and whether it has already been arranged.
A test drive is one of the most important parts of buying any used vehicle.
Don’t restrict yourself to driving around the corner.
Where practical and legal, try the car across different types of roads and speeds.
Pay attention to:
Turn the radio off for part of the test drive. The seller’s questionable music taste isn’t the only thing you might otherwise fail to notice.
If you’re not confident inspecting a used vehicle yourself, consider arranging an independent professional inspection.
Everyone likes finding a bargain, but an unusually cheap used car deserves additional scrutiny.
Compare the asking price against similar Vauxhalls with comparable:
A slightly more expensive car with comprehensive maintenance records and better condition could ultimately cost less to own than the cheapest example available.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions before arranging a viewing.
Useful questions include:
How long have you owned the vehicle?
Why are you selling it?
Does it have a full service history?
Has it had any major repairs?
Are there any known faults?
How many keys are included?
When was it last serviced?
Are there any outstanding warning lights or mechanical problems?
Clear answers can save both buyer and seller from wasting time.
Don’t allow yourself to be rushed into making payment.
The Government recommends checking the vehicle details against DVLA records, checking its MOT history, checking for safety recalls and inspecting the V5C before purchasing a used vehicle.
You may also wish to obtain an independent vehicle-history check to investigate matters that aren’t covered by the basic government services.
Only proceed once you’re satisfied with the identity, history, condition and documentation of the vehicle.
Vehicle tax doesn’t transfer with the car when ownership changes.
If you purchase the vehicle, you’ll need to arrange the appropriate vehicle tax before using it on the road. You can find further information through the Government’s vehicle tax service.
You’ll also need appropriate insurance before driving the vehicle.
Vauxhall Trader is a UK marketplace dedicated to bringing together people buying and selling Vauxhall vehicles.
Rather than searching through marketplaces containing every manufacturer imaginable, you can browse used Vauxhall cars for sale in one dedicated marketplace.
Found the right Vauxhall? Take your time, carry out the appropriate checks and make sure you’re satisfied with the vehicle before completing the purchase.
If you currently own a Vauxhall and are thinking about changing cars, you can also advertise your Vauxhall for salethrough the marketplace.
Check the vehicle’s MOT history, service records, V5C, VIN, mileage, tyres, brakes, bodywork, interior equipment and general mechanical condition. You should also check for outstanding safety recalls and make sure the information supplied by the seller matches official DVLA records.
Mileage is only one factor to consider. A higher-mileage car that has been properly serviced and maintained can potentially be a better purchase than a lower-mileage car with poor maintenance history. Assess the vehicle’s age, condition and maintenance records alongside its mileage.
Yes. The UK Government provides a free online MOT history service using the vehicle’s registration number.
You can search Vauxhall cars for sale through Vauxhall Trader and compare available vehicles from sellers across the UK.
Yes. If you’re ready to change vehicles, visit Sell Your Vauxhall to advertise your vehicle on the marketplace.
Vauxhall Trader is a specialist UK marketplace for people looking to buy and sell Vauxhall cars.
You can learn more about Vauxhall Trader, read feedback on our reviews page or visit our FAQs for answers to common questions.
For additional buying, selling and ownership guides, visit the Vauxhall Trader Blog.
If you need assistance using the marketplace, you can also contact Vauxhall Trader.
