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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Curbside Traders & Unlicensed Dealers UK: How to Spot "Curbstoning" Used Car Scams
Unlicensed car traders posing as private sellers put thousands of UK buyers at risk. Learn how to spot curbstoning scams, check V5C logbook red flags, and protect your consumer rights.
Buying an Ex-Motability Car in the UK: Risks, Adaptation Red Flags & Buyer's Checklist
Ex-Motability cars offer low mileage and main-dealer servicing, but adaptation removals, short-trip engine wear, and 3-year MOT gaps bring hidden risks. Here is your complete buying guide.
OBD2 Scanner Used Car Inspection UK: How to Read Diagnostic Codes Before Buying
Learn how to use an OBD2 scanner when inspecting a used car in the UK. Uncover hidden engine fault codes, spot cleared code scams, and check ECU readiness.
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.
Mileage Blockers & CAN Bus Odometer Fraud: The Hidden UK Used Car Threat
Hardware mileage blockers (CAN Bus filters) bypass MOT checks by freezing odometers in real time. Learn how mileage blockers work, UK legal rules, and how to spot them.
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.
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