Buying a car is a significant decision. Taking time to research, inspect properly and understand your rights can help you avoid costly mistakes.
Important:
Contracts for the sale or purchase of motor vehicles cannot be concluded on the DoneDeal website. Any agreement between you and the seller must be made separately, outside of the DoneDeal platform.
Please refer to our Terms & Conditions for further information.
Please note: This guide is for general information only. It does not constitute legal advice, and we do not accept liability for any loss arising from reliance on this guide.
Quick Buyer Checklist
Before proceeding, confirm:
Does the seller’s name and address match the VRC (Vehicle Registration Certificate)?
Is the car located at the address shown on the VRC?
Do the VRC details match the car’s physical description?
Does the VIN on the vehicle match the VRC?
Does the registration number match the tax/insurance/NCT discs?
Has the seller agreed to register the change of ownership?
If any answer is “No”, proceed with caution.
Research Before You Buy
Be prepared.
Compare makes and models online.
Consider reliability, fuel costs and insurance.
Talk to friends or family who own similar vehicles.
Remember:
Used cars carry higher risk of wear and breakdown.
Cars over four years old must have an NCT.
Consumer rights are stronger when buying from a dealer than a private seller.
Buying from a Dealer
When buying from a dealer, you are protected under the Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Act 1980.
Your rights apply whether the car is new or used.
If a fault appears after purchase, the dealer is responsible for resolving it.
SIMI Members
There is no statutory regulation of motor dealers in Ireland. However:
The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) represents many dealers.
Members adhere to ethical standards.
SIMI operates a free Consumer Complaints Service.
Look for the SIMI logo at the dealership.
Buying at Auction
At auction:
You cannot test drive the vehicle.
Guarantees are limited or non-existent.
You are bound by the auctioneer’s terms and conditions.
You may only have limited rights to reject a vehicle after sale.
Inspect carefully and understand the risks before bidding.
Private Seller or Rogue Trader?
Some traders pose as private sellers.
Warning sign:
If they ask “Which car?” when you enquire, they may be selling multiple vehicles.
Private sellers:
Must not sell an unroadworthy vehicle.
Must answer questions truthfully.
Are not obliged to volunteer unrequested information.
Your consumer protections are limited in private sales.
Ownership & Background Checks
Before viewing:
Request the registration number.
Check ownership changes on motortax.ie.
Be cautious if the vehicle changed hands recently.
Always carry out a car history check.
A history check can reveal:
Outstanding finance
Stolen status
Crash or write-off history
NCT/tax status
Previous taxi use
Never hand over money before completing checks.
Imported Cars
For UK imports:
Ask to see the V5 registration document.
Confirm VRT has been paid.
Remember mileage will be in miles, not kilometres.
Check UK MOT history.
Carry out the same history checks as you would for an Irish vehicle.
Viewing the Car
Arrange a daytime viewing.
Bring:
A knowledgeable friend or mechanic
A torch
Meet private sellers at their home address.
Consider a professional pre-purchase inspection.
Exterior Checks
Registration plates (newer than car?)
Window etchings (match VIN or registration?)
Signs of repainting or overspray
Uneven tyre wear
Rust under sills and arches
Electrical components working
Interior Checks
Excessively worn pedals or steering wheel
Seat wear
Security system functioning
Spare key present
Mileage verified
Boot floor checked for leaks or past tow-bar use
Under the Bonnet
VIN matches documents
Clean oil on dipstick
Timing belt history
No suspicious overspray
Test Drive
Start with a cold engine.
During drive:
Listen for knocks or exhaust noise
Check steering vibration
Test gears for smooth engagement
Apply brakes firmly
Watch for blue (oil) or white (head gasket) smoke
Drive on varied road types where possible.
Finalising the Deal
If the price seems unusually low, pause.
Payment options:
Cash
Bank draft (preferred — creates a paper trail)
If paying a deposit:
Get a signed receipt.
Avoid pressure to complete quickly.
Always confirm:
Seller’s address
Contact number (landline where possible)
Final Reminder
If something doesn’t feel right, walk away.
Buying a car should feel exciting — not rushed or uncertain.
Take your time, ask questions, and never skip checks.
A careful purchase today avoids regret tomorrow.
Contact Us
If you have any further questions or would like to chat, please reach out to our Customer Support team.