Buying a Used Car – Checklist 2026
Buying a used car goes smoothly without surprises when you know what to check before the purchase. In this guide we walk through the checklist, the documents you need and the price comparison – as well as where to see the car’s true history.
Buying a car step by step
- Book a test drive and ask for documents – registration certificate, inspection certificate and service history.
- Go through the checklist on site – bodywork, tyres, lights, leaks and interior.
- Check the inspection and the register – in Traficom’s vehicle register you can see the history and restrictions.
- Test drive – brakes, steering, suspension and unusual noises.
- Negotiate the price and complete the deal – put everything agreed in writing.
Before the purchase: these documents
- Registration certificate – basic details, ownership history and registration information.
- Inspection certificate – a valid inspection shows the car is roadworthy.
- Service history – the most important indicator of condition. Regular car servicing shows the car has been looked after.
- Insurance details – check that the insurance is valid and transfers to the new owner.
On-site checklist
- Bodywork and corrosion – sills, wheel arches and underbody. Rust can hide under plastic parts.
- Tyres – tread depth and tyre age (manufacture year on the sidewall).
- Lights and electrical equipment – all lights, instruments and warning lights.
- Engine bay and leaks – oil, coolant and brake fluid leaks.
- Interior – seats, seatbelts and working equipment.
- Test drive – brakes, steering, suspension and unusual noises.
Inspection and register – check before buying
The first periodic inspection is carried out at four years of age, then every two years, and annually from the age of ten. A valid inspection is always a plus, but it does not tell the whole truth about the car’s condition.
Before buying, check the car’s details in Traficom’s vehicle register or on rekkari.fi: there you can see registration details, history and any restrictions or lien notations.
Private seller or car dealer?
| Aspect | Car dealer | Private seller |
|---|---|---|
| Consumer protection | Comprehensive (liability for defects) | Limited (“as is”) |
| Warranty | Often included | Usually not |
| Price | Slightly higher | More room to negotiate |
| Trade-in | Often possible | Rarely |
| Service history | Usually documented | Varies |
What does a used car cost?
Prices vary depending on make, age and condition. The following are examples from the Finnish market (Autotalli.com, 2026) – not guarantees, but price references:
| Segment | Example | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Small city car | Kia Rio 2015, 92,000 km | €7,990 |
| Family car | 3–5 year old mid-size | €20,000–30,000 |
| Electric SUV | Tesla Model Y 2023, 124,000 km | €33,890 |
Compare prices more broadly, for example on Nettiauto and Autotalli.
Buying an EV: battery condition
Electric cars are growing on the used market, but the battery condition is the most important thing to check. Ask the seller for the battery’s State of Health (SOH) and check that charging works both at home and at a fast charger. Read more about EV service and charging.
Frequently asked questions
What should you check before buying a used car? Bodywork and corrosion, tyres, lights, fluid leaks, interior and a test drive. Also check the inspection and the car’s history in the register.
Where can I see the car’s service history? Ask the seller or dealer for it. Regular service records in the inspection certificate and the service book tell you the most about the car’s condition.
Should I buy from a private seller or a car dealer? A dealer provides more comprehensive consumer protection and often a warranty; from a private seller you usually get a lower price. The choice depends on your budget and risk tolerance.
What documents are needed for a car purchase? Registration certificate, inspection certificate, service history and insurance details. Anything agreed with the seller should also be written into a written sales contract.
Compare car dealers
Find a suitable used car near you: compare car dealers by city and see what reviews the companies have received. The most popular cities are Helsinki, Tampere and Turku. Would you like a quote? Contact us and ask for a price directly from a dealer.