The IsItAGoodCar blog.
Honest, data-led guides on buying used cars in the UK. Just the facts you need to buy with confidence.
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Flood-Damaged Cars UK: How to Spot Hidden Water Damage Before Buying
Thousands of flood-damaged cars enter the UK second-hand market every year. Learn how to detect hidden water damage, inspect rust red flags, and avoid costly write-offs.
Buying a Car Without an MOT in the UK: Legal Rules, Risks & Buyer's Guide
Can you legally buy or drive a car without an MOT in the UK? Discover the legal exemptions, road tax rules, insurance risks, and inspection steps before buying.
Buying an Ex-Taxi or Private Hire Vehicle in the UK: Risks, V5C Warnings & Checklist
Thinking of buying a former taxi or rideshare private hire vehicle in Great Britain? Learn how to spot hidden ex-taxis, inspect V5C logbooks, check local council records, and evaluate mechanical wear.
Logbook Loans on Used Cars UK: How Bills of Sale Work & How to Spot Hidden Debt
Unknowingly buying a used car with an active logbook loan can leave you without a vehicle or your money. Learn how Bills of Sale work and how to spot hidden debt.
Importing a Used Car from Japan to the UK: Taxes, IVA, Registration & Risk Checklist
Thinking of importing a used car from Japan to Great Britain? Learn how Japanese auction grades work, calculate HMRC duties & VAT, navigate DVSA IVA testing, and complete DVLA registration.
AdBlue & SCR System Failures in Used Diesels: UK Buyer's Guide
Euro 6 diesel AdBlue tank, pump, and NOx sensor failures can cause expensive £1,500 repairs and non-start countdowns. Learn how to inspect SCR systems before buying.
Automatic Gearbox Problems UK: DSG, Powershift & CVT Buying Guide
Avoid £3,000+ gearbox failure bills. Learn how to spot DSG, Powershift, and CVT automatic transmission faults before buying a used car in the UK.
Outstanding Vehicle Safety Recalls UK: How to Check & Protect Yourself Before Buying
Over 1 in 10 UK used cars have outstanding safety recalls. Learn why MOTs don't check recalls, how to verify chassis VIN status for free, and your legal rights.
Buying a Used Car with a Private Number Plate: UK Risks & Checklist
Buying a used car with a private or personalized plate? Learn the DVLA retention rules, hidden finance risks, VIN verification steps, and V5C logbook checks.
Ford 1.0 EcoBoost Wet Belt Failure: Used Car Buyer's Guide
Ford's 1.0 EcoBoost engine is famous for wet timing belt degradation that can destroy engines. Learn how wet belts fail, key warning signs, and crucial pre-purchase checks.
Wet Belts vs Timing Chains in Used Cars: Avoid Catastrophic Engine Failure
Wet belts and timing chains can cause unexpected £4,000 engine replacements. Learn how Ford EcoBoost and Stellantis PureTech wet belts fail, how to inspect timing chains, and what checks to make before buying.
Used Car Test Drive Checklist UK: How to Spot Mechanical Faults Before You Buy
A test drive is your best chance to spot hidden mechanical faults. Follow our comprehensive UK checklist to inspect the engine, gearbox, suspension, and more.
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