Planning to buy a pre-owned car? Well, it is certainly a more practical and economical choice then going for a new one. They are much more affordable, retain better value, and you can get your desired car, which as a brand-new model, might have been out of your reach. But buying a used car can be a tedious task. In addition to finding the right model and deal, you also need to check if the car has any problems or issues, if the paperwork is in order, and more. It's important to know what to look for in a used car, and here are 5 things you must check in a used car before finalising it.
Also Read: Buying Used Cars: How To Check For Signs Of Accidents/Damages
Check the body panels, bumpers, lights, tyres, everything for damages or rusting.
1. Check the car's physical condition. Spend some time with the car and check it inside out for any kind of damage. Small dents and scratches can be easily fixed, but rusting might be a problem. Check the body panels, bumpers, lights, tyre, electronics everything. Also, check open the bonnet and check for damages or rusting. If you find any damage that the seller has not told you about, you can also use it to your advantage when negotiating the price. If you have a trusted mechanic, take them along.
Also Read: How To Look For Rusting When Buying A Used Car
2. Look for signs of flood damage. While dents and scratches are easier to locate, locating flood damages will require you to have a much sharper eye. Check the headlights, if you find moisture or water droplets inside, it's likely that the car was damaged in the flood. Similarly, you can check the seats, floorboard, and even the boot, it is difficult to get rid of moisture from these places. Flood damage also leaves a distractive odour inside the cabin, which is nearly impossible to get rid of, so use your nose as well.
You can check the seats, floorboard, and even the boot, it is difficult to get rid of moisture from these places.
3. Check the odometer. Get inside the car and check the odometer reading. If a 4- to 5-year-old car has done more than 60,000 km on the odometer, then you need to check for any major mechanical issue or repair work. You can do so by analysing the service history of the car.
4. Take a long test drive. Always ask for a long test drive, at least 7 to 10 km. It will not only help you discover if the car has any mechanical issues, but you will also get to know if you are comfortable with the car. Pay attention to the sounds the car makes, and check if the transmission, clutch, and brakes are functioning properly.
5. Always check the car's history and paperwork. The documents that have to be in order are registration papers, insurance papers, no objection certificate and pollution certificate. If you are buying the car from an organised used car seller, they will usually have the records for you to verify. If you are purchasing the vehicle from an individual seller/owner, ask about the history of the car and check all documents, especially if it has had past owners. You can even check for past accident claims and records using the insurance number as that information is generally available in the public domain. Also, make sure that the car is not under any loan. Also check whether the car in question has high security registration plates (HSRP) and Fastag attached.
