Buying a used car can be the fastest, simplest and cheapest way to your perfect car. You don't need to be a mechanic to inspect a used car, but there are a few golden rules. Get a car history check to establish if the car has any outstanding finance, has been stolen or written off Examine the car's documents -- logbook, service history and previous MOT certificates -- to spot if the car has been clocked Check the car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at the base of the windscreen, under the bonnet and stamped into the chassis under the carpet beside the driver's seat for signs of tampering, and make sure they match the VIN recorded in the logbook Look for rust, mismatched paint and uneven gaps between body panels Make sure all the car's features work By reading key documents including the V5C (logbook), service history and MOT certificates then checking key points around the car, you will be able to quickly assess if the vehicle you are viewing is as described in its advert The test drive is your chance to asses every aspect of the car, from how it feels on the road, to making sure all its equipment works correctly. Always take a test drive of at least 15 minutes and on different types of road Arrange suitable insurance cover before you drive the car Start the car when the engine is cold, and check for excessive smoke and unusual noises Check the gears, brakes, steering and suspension work as they should, with no unusual noises and vibrations