Buying a used van can be a challenging process for a variety of reasons. One key thing that you want to make sure of before committing to a purchase is that the advertised mileage is genuine. A number of ways to do this are outlined below.

Check the MOT and Tax History for Free

This can be done online on the government’s MOT website. You can check the mileage recorded at each MOT – it should increase by roughly the same amount each time. If, for example, one year it goes up by 20000 miles and then the next only 3000, this would raise suspicions. You can also check when the van was last taxed.

Pay for an Online Vehicle History Check

There are a number of websites and apps that can do this for you. They will provide a report outlining a variety of things, including any mileage discrepancies. Bear in mind that some human error can occur, so it may not always be deliberate. It is also worth checking the number of owners versus the mileage.

Inspect the Van Yourself for Excessive Wear

You should be able to get a good gauge of mileage based on the condition of the van. If it is being advertised as having only done 25,000 miles, the wear should be minimal. Check that the doors align properly, check for holes in the floor, and check for any evidence of an engine or cam belt replacement, which would indicate a mileage of at least 60,000.

Used Vans for Sale Tewkesbury

If you are in the local area, and looking for a used van, specialists such as //cotswoldvancentre.co.uk/buy/used-vans-for-sale/tewkesbury/ offer a variety of options.

Check the Service History

Ask the dealer to provide you with the service records, and check them yourself to make sure that they indicate a mileage similar to that being advertised. If you have any doubts about the validity of the garage names in the service book, you can always call them up and ask them about it.