Things to Check before Buying a Pre-Owned Car
Things to Check before Buying a Pre-Owned Car
Posted on July 30, 2020
Things to Check before Buying a Second-Hand Car
The process of buying a car can be daunting because you have to consider a lot of factors. You need to make the right decision because most probably you wouldn’t buy a car every year. Recently, most of the car buyers are tempted to invest in a used luxury car than a brand-new economy-class vehicle. Second-hand cars are catching more attention from car buyers because the used car market has grown exponentially. Now, it’s much easier to get a used Mercedes or BMW at the price of a brand new Hyundai or Toyota. Purchasing a used car can be a wise financial decision compared to buying one straight out of the showroom. However, it’s crucial to do some research before making a final decision.
Before you spend your hard-earned money on a used car, it makes sense to contact multiple dealers and find the best deal. As compared to buying a car from an individual, it’s better to look for certified car dealers. Buying a used car through a dealer is a safer option because these auto brokers have already inspected the car and checked its documents. Once you find a reliable used auto broker, there are certain steps that you should follow to pick the right vehicle. Here are some tips to help you choose the best used car to avoid headaches in the future.
Inspect the Vehicle
First, you need to consider whether you want to buy an SUV or a sedan or hatchback. If you have found the model and make you’re looking for, the next step is to carefully inspect the vehicle. You need to find if the car has been recently repainted or if there’s a dent anywhere. You may also take a trusted mechanic with you to check the internal components of the vehicle. It is crucial to check all the vital parts such as tires, engine, brakes, filters, windshield, dashboard, air conditioner, etc. Take time to look at the exterior, as well as the interior of the car to find out hidden defects. This will help you in either getting the defect fixed by the owner or will allow you to negotiate the price.
Take a Test Drive
If everything looks satisfactory, take the cars you like for a test drive. Any experienced driver can understand the condition of the car by driving it on rough terrain. While taking the test drive, you should pay attention to the suspension, noises from the engine, ease of operating steering, brakes, and gears.
Check All the Documents
If you’re satisfied with the condition of the car, the next step is to check the papers. Always make sure that the engine number and chassis no. match the number in the registration papers. You should also look at the insurance papers to find out if the car had claims related to any accidents. If the vehicle has a higher no claim bonus (NCB) then it’s a good indication. As a smart car buyer, you can also ask for the service history of the car. This will help you find out if the car has been well maintained. Most importantly, always verify all the documents including the original invoice, CarFax if applicable and loan term from the car financing provider before finalizing the deal.