Buyer's guide
What to ask the seller
Ask these before you travel. A good seller answers easily. Vague answers, hesitation or pressure to decide quickly are answers too.
Last reviewed: September 2026
What should I ask before I go to see the car?
Ring or message the seller first. These questions take five minutes and can save you a wasted trip.
Are you the registered owner? — The name on the logbook (the Vehicle Registration Certificate, or VRC) should be the seller's, unless it's a dealer.
Warning sign: "I'm selling it for a friend."
What's the registration number? — You need it for the history check.
Warning sign: they won't give it.
How long have you had it, and why are you selling? — A long ownership usually means a car that was looked after.
Does it have a full service history? When was it last serviced? — Regular servicing is the best sign a car was looked after. You want a stamped service book or receipts.
Has the timing belt been changed? Do you have the receipt? — It's an expensive job if it's due.
Has it been in an accident or had any paintwork done? — Repaired damage isn't always a dealbreaker, but you want to hear about it now, not spot it at the viewing.
Was it imported? — Owners from before it came to Ireland may not show up.
Is there any money still owed on it? — Confirm the answer with the history check either way.
When is the NCT due? — A recent pass means the car met the safety test lately. If it's due soon, it may need work to pass.
Are there any faults or warning lights I should know about? — An honest seller will tell you now. Check anything they mention when you see the car.
Is it OK if I get a mechanic to look at it? — This is the single most useful question.
Warning sign: any hesitation.
Please don't drive it before I arrive. — You want to start it from cold.
What should I ask to see at the viewing?
- The VRC (logbook). Name and address should match the seller, and the chassis number (VIN) should match the car.
- The NCT certificate, the service book and receipts. The mileage on old receipts should rise steadily.
- Both keys.
- The car at the seller's home, not in a car park.
What should I agree before I pay?
- “Can I pay by bank transfer?”
- “Will you sign a receipt?” It should show the date, price, registration, mileage and both your names.
- “Can we do the change of ownership online together now?”