14 Sep 01
Don't buy a car without a V5 (registration document or log book) and don't fall for the old 'The paperwork's at Swansea' (the HQ of the DVLA) excuse. Check that the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) quoted on the V5 matches those on the MOT certificate and the car: look at the VIN plate on the engine, on the chassis - usually under the carpet to the right of the driver's seat - and any numbers etched on the windows. Look for signs that these numbers and plates have been altered or tampered with. Make sure that the registration plate matches the plate quoted on the MOT and V5. Check that the person selling the car is the person named on the V5. If not, why not?
