What should I bring when viewing a used car?

Bring the following to a viewing:

• Your vehicle history check results, printed or on your phone, so you can cross-check the VIN and details on the spot
• A torch — useful for checking under the car and in the engine bay, even in daylight
• A magnet — a small fridge magnet can help detect filler used to disguise bodywork repairs (it won't stick over filled areas)
• Your driving licence — needed if you plan to test drive
• A friend or second pair of eyes if possible — an extra person notices things you might miss
• Your phone banking app — for a bank transfer if you decide to buy, which leaves a paper trail. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash to a viewing, both for your own safety and because it leaves no record of the transaction

Avoid viewing in the dark or in heavy rain if you can help it — both make it much harder to spot bodywork issues.