Buying a used car in Ireland can be exciting — but if you’re not careful, it can also lead to unexpected costs or even scams. Whether you’re shopping online, through a used car dealer, or at local garages in Dublin or Cork, this guide walks you through everything you need to check before buying.
✅ Step 1: Set a Budget (And Factor in Hidden Costs)
Think beyond the sticker price. Include:
- Motor tax
- NCT cost (€55 standard test)
- Insurance premiums
- Potential repairs
- Fuel (compare diesel vs hybrid vs EV)
💡 Tip: Use online tools to estimate classic car insurance in Ireland or PCP Ireland finance options. If you’re looking for 0 APR cars Ireland, read the fine print carefully.
🔍 Step 2: Do a Vehicle History & Reg Check
Before contacting any seller, always:
- Run a car licence plate check
- Use Motorcheck.ie or Cartell.ie
- Look for:
- Outstanding finance
- Mileage tampering
- If it was written off or stolen
- Previous owners
🔍 You can also use a car owner check free service if available. Don’t skip this — it could save you €€€ in the long run.
📍 Step 3: Choose Where to Buy
Here are your three main options:
- Private Seller – Lower prices, but less protection
- Used Car Dealerships Near Me – More peace of mind, often with warranty
- Online Portals – Like Car.ie or CarsForSaleIreland.ie
👉 If you want dealer support, search “used car dealers in Dublin” or “car dealers Northern Ireland” for broader options.
🧾 Step 4: Check NCT, Tax & Service History
Ask the seller for:
- NCT cert (check expiry date!)
- Service records (recent oil changes, tyres, etc.)
- Tax disc or proof of current motor tax
- Ownership docs (logbook/VRC)
📌 NCT check Ireland tip: Cars 4+ years old need NCT every 2 years. New laws apply from 2025 — check updates on RSA.ie.
🚘 Step 5: Inspect the Car or Bring a Mechanic
Whether it’s a hatchback or hybrid SUV, look for:
- Rust, dents, mismatched paint
- Oil leaks or engine knocking
- Warning lights on the dash
- Tyres (check tread depth)
- AC/heater working?
⚙️ No idea what to check? Visit a trusted garage in Dublin or car shop near you for a €50–€80 pre-purchase inspection.
🔁 Step 6: Take a Test Drive (City + Open Roads)
You MUST test drive the car. Look for:
- Strange engine noises
- Braking feel
- Gear changes (especially for automatics)
- Steering responsiveness
- Dashboard alerts
📍Try urban areas and the motorway (e.g. M50 Dublin) to simulate real conditions.
💳 Step 7: Explore Finance or Pay Safely
If you’re not paying upfront, consider:
- PCP Ireland deals
- Dealer finance
- Credit unions
- Banks
Compare with the best car finance deals in Ireland or explore car finance Cork offers.
💡 Beware of shady deals — always get everything in writing and avoid large cash payments without receipt.
📝 Step 8: Confirm Ownership & Close the Sale
Before you hand over any money:
- Check ID matches VRC (logbook)
- Get a signed receipt (include VIN, reg, date, amount)
- Fill Form RF105 (change of ownership)
- Register change via Motor Tax Office or online
🚫 Never accept “logbook is in the post” — that’s a red flag!
🎯 Bonus Tip: Don’t Rush the Process
Buying a car is a big move. Take your time comparing vehicles, reading car reviews (e.g. Volvo XC60 review, Skoda Scala review, Dacia Duster review), and exploring options near you.
🛠️ Tools like Find My Car, Reg Lookup, and Car Info by Reg help you stay informed and avoid scams.
Final Thoughts
Buying a used car in Ireland doesn’t have to be stressful — if you follow these steps, check the paperwork, and get the car inspected, you’ll be driving off with peace of mind.
Ready to start your search? Explore trusted used car dealerships near you with verified reviews and competitive finance offers.
