Buying a used car is an exciting moment, but there are several important steps to take before you can enjoy complete peace of mind. From arranging insurance to carrying out essential maintenance checks, here’s what you should do after purchasing a used car.
For maintenance tips and tricks, check out our maintenance guidance hub.
Arrange Your Insurance First
Before driving your newly purchased vehicle, you must have valid car insurance in place. Driving without insurance is illegal in the UK and can result in fines, penalty points, and even vehicle seizure.
If possible, compare insurance quotes before buying the vehicle so you can factor the cost into your budget. It’s also worth reviewing different levels of cover, including:
- Third-party cover
- Third-party, fire and theft
- Comprehensive cover
If you already have an existing policy, check whether you can transfer your cover to the new vehicle or whether switching providers could save you money.
For more information on insurances, specifically if you’re looking at comprehensive, check out our guide on comprehensive car insurance.
Check the Vehicle Registration Details
If you’ve bought your car from a dealership, most of the ownership paperwork is usually handled for you.
If you’ve purchased from a private seller, you’ll need to ensure the vehicle ownership has been correctly transferred. The seller should update the V5C registration certificate with the DVLA and provide you with the relevant documentation.
Make sure you have:
- The V5C registration certificate
- Proof of insurance
- Proof of identity and address (if required)
- Confirmation that the ownership transfer has been completed
It’s always worth checking that the details on the V5C match the vehicle you’ve purchased.
Read the Owner’s Manual
The owner’s manual contains valuable information about your vehicle and can help you avoid costly mistakes.
While you don’t need to read every page immediately, it’s worth familiarising yourself with:
- Service schedules
- Recommended oil grades
- Tyre pressure specifications
- Warning lights and dashboard indicators
- Vehicle features and controls
Understanding how your vehicle operates can help you maintain it properly and identify issues early.
Inspect the Vehicle for Any Problems
Even if you’ve thoroughly checked the car before buying it, it’s worth carrying out another inspection once you get it home.
Look out for:
- Fluid leaks
- Unusual noises
- Warning lights
- Tyre wear
- Brake performance
- Battery condition
Identifying potential issues early can often save you money and prevent larger repair bills later on.
Carry Out Essential Maintenance Checks
Routine maintenance is key to keeping your used car reliable and running efficiently.
Some of the first things you may want to check include:
- Engine oil level and condition
- Coolant level
- Brake fluid
- Windscreen washer fluid
- Tyre pressures
- Battery health
- Air filters
If there’s no clear service history or you’re unsure when the last service was completed, booking a service soon after purchase can provide additional peace of mind.
For all things maintenance, check out our maintenance checklist and stay on top of your vehicle properly.
Make Sure the Vehicle Is Taxed
Vehicle tax does not transfer between owners in the UK.
Before driving your newly purchased car, ensure you have taxed it through the DVLA. This can usually be completed quickly online using the reference number from the V5C.
Take Your New Car for a Drive
Once the paperwork is sorted and you’ve completed your initial checks, it’s time to enjoy your new purchase.
Take the car on a variety of roads to familiarise yourself with:
- Steering feel
- Braking performance
- Visibility
- Gear changes
- Driver assistance features
The more time you spend behind the wheel, the more comfortable and confident you’ll become with your new vehicle.
Looking to Get a Value for Your Current Car?
If you’ve bought a new used car and need to sell your existing vehicle, Jamjar can help.
Simply enter your registration number into our free online valuation tool and compare offers from trusted car buyers across the UK. There’s no obligation to sell, no hidden fees, and the process is quick, simple, and hassle-free.
Get your free valuation today and discover how much your car could be worth.