How to Buy a Used Car in Ireland

Buying a used car in Ireland means going to a dealer or a private seller. There are several websites that act as intermediaries between dealerships, private sellers and buyers that allow potential buyers to view the car and its specifications online.

Dealerships

Dealerships tend to be more expensive than private sellers because they generally check the car out and give it a thorough clean and spruce-up before selling it. Dealers are open to negotiation on price.

Private Sellers

Private sellers also advertise on car websites and can be cheaper than dealers. The risks are that private sellers may be withholding information about the car that an honest dealer would not. You must make an appointment with the seller to come see the car at their convenience and for safety's sake, you should inform somebody where you are going. Private sellers are also open to haggling.

Documentation

Before buying a used car, you should check to see the seller has the Vehicle Registration Certificate (VRC) for cars first registered after 2004 or the Vehicle Licensing Certificate (VLC) for older cars.

For cars registered before 1993, the seller should complete a Change of Ownership Form from the Motor Tax Office, which should be brought to the Motor Tax Office along with the vehicle's Logbook.

For cars registered in 1993 or later, the seller should send the VLC or VRC with your details filled in to the Motor Tax Office who will then send on the updated certificate to you.

Before buying a car, you should also check the National Car Test (NCT) cert expiry date. Cars over four years old must pass this test to be driven on the road.