Nowadays, buying a second-hand car has become quite easy. It’s possible to get a good car on a limited budget; Therefore, many people prefer to buy a used car rather than buying a brand new car. While some people buy a used car primarily for the first-hand experience, even a small mistake in the process can lead to huge financial losses. Often, a car may appear to be in perfect condition on the outside, but there may be serious hidden problems inside. Therefore, if you are thinking of buying a used car, it is very important to keep certain things in mind.
Always check car documents
While buying a used car, the most important step is to thoroughly check all the required documents. Necessary documents—such as Registration Certificate (RC), Insurance Policy, Pollution Control Certificate, and service records—must be completely correct and up-to-date. The engine number and chassis number written on the RC must exactly match the numbers written on the vehicle. If the car was previously on a loan, ensure that you have obtained a ‘No Objection Certificate’ (NOC) from the bank; Failure to do so may lead to legal problems in the future.
Don’t ignore accident history
Often, cars involved in accidents are so meticulously repaired that they appear brand new from the outside. Therefore, closely inspect body panels, paintwork and welding joints. If the gap between the doors or bonnet is not uniform, it could be a sign of a major accident. Such a vehicle can compromise both your safety and performance in the future.
Assess the condition of the engine thoroughly
Engine is the most important part of any car. When starting the vehicle, pay special attention to the noise coming from it, any kind of vibration and smoke coming from the exhaust. If the engine is making a lot of noise or smoking, it may be a sign that it needs an expensive repair. In such cases, before deciding to buy a used car, always try to start the engine when it is cold, and make sure you take the car for a long test drive.
It is also important to check the odometer
In older cars, the odometer is often tampered with to show lower mileage than it actually is. Therefore, do not rely solely on the meter reading. Instead, get an idea of the car’s actual condition of use by looking at wear and tear on interior parts—such as the steering wheel, pedals, and seats—and compare that to the car’s service record.
Always check the age of the car
In India, the legal age of a car is considered to be 15 years. Therefore, be sure to check its manufacturing date before purchasing. After completion of 15 years, the vehicle has to be re-registered—a costly process. The rules are more stringent for diesel cars.
Find out about service and parts availability
Many people buy a car just because of the low price, only to find that spare parts are either very expensive or difficult to find. Therefore, before deciding to purchase a particular car model, find out in advance about the service center and availability of spare parts.
bargain for the right price
Never rush when buying a used car. Research both online platforms and local markets to get an idea of the market value of the particular model you are interested in. If the car has any defects or issues, take advantage of those factors to negotiate a lower price. You can save a lot by bargaining wisely.
*What is the best age for a used car?
Although the legal age of any vehicle is generally considered to be 15 years, but a second-hand car that is 2 to 5 years old is considered the best option. By this time, the market value of the car has dropped significantly, but its overall quality and performance still remains strong. Additionally, such vehicles often still have some of the manufacturer’s warranty remaining, and have all the features found in a nearly new car.
