Travelling to see a car takes time and money. A short phone call or message with the right questions can save you a wasted trip and tells you a lot about the seller. Here is a list of questions many experienced buyers use.
About the car's history
- How long have you owned the car? Short ownership periods are not always bad, but ask why.
- Why are you selling it?
- How many previous owners has it had?
- Is there a service history? Ask whether it includes invoices and which garages did the work.
- When was the last service, and what was done?
- Has the car had any accidents or paint repairs?
About maintenance and known issues
Ask about the items that matter for the model you are buying. For example:
- For high-revving M engines: has preventive work such as rod bearings or VANOS been done?
- For SMG or DCT gearboxes: any faults, and has the system been checked?
- For turbo engines: any work on fuel pumps, injectors or turbochargers?
- For any model: cooling system parts, oil leaks, suspension work and brakes.
Read the buying guide for your model on the blog and this forum to know which questions to add.
About the current condition
- Are there any warning lights or messages?
- Any known faults, noises or leaks?
- What is the condition of the tyres and brakes?
- Are there any modifications? Ask whether they are documented and whether original parts come with the car.
- Is the car taxed, insured and roadworthy for a test drive?
About the viewing
- Can I see the car with a cold engine? A cold start reveals noises and smoke that disappear once the engine is warm.
- Can I bring a specialist or arrange an inspection? A seller with nothing to hide usually agrees.
- Can I see the documents that prove ownership and the identity of the car?
Listen to the answers
The way a seller answers is often as important as the answers themselves. Clear, consistent answers and a willingness to share invoices are good signs. Vague answers, pressure to decide quickly or refusing an inspection are warning signs.
Write down the answers and compare them with what you see during the viewing. If something does not match, ask why. And remember: never send money before you have seen the car and checked the documents.
If you want a second opinion, post the details in this forum without the seller's personal information.