Buyers Guide - what to look for

Checklist when looking at a used car

Engine
Does Engine Rattle or make strange noises when driving
Are there any oil or water leaks
Is exhaust smoke blue or black ( indicates engine wear )
Is exhaust smoke grey ( indicates water leaking into engine )
When engine stopped take oil cap off if there is grey stuff visible water has got into the engine
Check water hoses and look under car to see if oil is dropping
Check radiator water for foam or oil film

Bodywork tyres brakes etc
Check underside for any damage from off roading
Check for rust on sills wheel arches and bottom of doors
Is Paintwork Scratched or blotchy
Are Tyres in good condition including the spare
Do window and door seals leak
Does the colour match on all panels on car ( if not possible accident damage )
Check in engine and boot for signs of welding ( possible accident damage )
Check under carpet in boot for any signs of repair

Driving the car
Is changing gear smooth and the Clutch does not slip (if manual)
Do brakes work efficiently and not pull to one side or squeel when you brake
Does steering wheel judder when driving at different speeds
Do any alarm lights appear on the dash when driving
Does car pull to one side when driving
Are there any strange noises when turning corners
Are Tyres in good condition including the spare
Do window and door seals leak

Is Mileage Genuine
Check Mileage on current and old MOT Certificates if available
Ask for service history if available ( best indication of a cars genuine mileage )
Are pedals and gear Knob very worn for supposed mileage or are they very new
Is mileage contradict mileage when car last sold ( check with previous owner on V5 )

Has car been stolen
Has VIN number ( vehicle identification number ) been tampered with
Is the VIN on other areas of the car the same as on Documentation
Check for signs of forced entry to car or changes to locks
Does the seller have current V5 ( registration document )for car
Does V5 appear to have been tampered with and is watermark on V5
Is sellers name same as name on registered owner on V5
Check number plate on V5 is same as on car
Check engine number on V5 same as on car
Check VIN on V5 is same as car
Does the owner have current MOT and Insurance certificate

I would add specifically for Pajero ...

Look very carefully for any sign of overheating - (such as the brass showing round the rad cap where it has leaked).

Also check all the 4WD stuff works as it should - see info on superselect mechanism ...
http://www.mitsubishi-motors.co.jp/inter/products/GDI_PAJERO/gdi_pajero_03.html

Get someone who has owned a Paj for a while to come with you for a look.