10 Things to Consider at the Time of Buying Second-Hand Car

Have you just learnt driving, and want to test your hand and your confidence? Then buying a used car is the best option for you.

While buying a second-hand car means less investment of your capital and ability to get luxury cars at an affordable price, it is not an easy task to find the best ‘used’ car.

Though the market for the second-hand car in India is massive; it is still in the emerging stage. Used cars may require replacement of parts, tyres or even the battery. So, getting a safe and reliable deal is most important while buying your second-hand car. Sellers of the used car may not have proper documentation, which may land you in a pickle. It is essential to be aware of the amount of work that you would have to do once you buy a used car. It includes registrations, insurance, paperwork and transfers, which is no less than a struggle to conquer.

Luckily for you, we are giving you a checklist of things to consider at the time of buying a second-hand car:

1) The Budget Comes First: First thing first, set your budget. This will help you stay within the line of your investment and avoid overspending.

2) Research the Best-Suited Model: Research on the internet about various car models and its suitability. Understand the car specifications correctly. Once you know what specifications you need, it becomes easy to narrow down the most suited car for you. Preferably, search for the used cars which are 1-3 years old.

3) Look for Certified Vehicles: Certified second-hand cars are the way to go forward. They are your best option when you are looking for a used car. Why? Because they save your money, pretty much work like new cars and you get the original warranty as well.

4) Know Your Buying Options: You can buy the second-hand car from any individual, dealer or you can buy it online. If you are buying online, look for the discounts and if you are buying from any individual, know the reason why he wishes to sell his vehicle. Proceed only if you know that the option is reliable and the deal is good.

5) Get the Car Inspected: Get the car inspected by a mechanic. You may have run the car’s history, but getting it inspected should be your top-most priority. If possible, inspect the car at the mechanic’s shop, so that it can be lifted and checked underneath also. You can ask the seller to show the service history of the car. While inspecting the second-hand car, make sure that the engine is working smoothly. Tyres should be checked for any wear and tear. Inspecting the chassis will help you determine if the car has met with an accident before. Check the battery and the electronics properly.

6) A Test Drive is Must: Even if your decision is done or not, you have to test drive the prospective car. This will help you get the feel of the car, and determine any problems while driving. The test drive that you take should not be cut short. Extend it to 3-4 kilometers to get the proper feel. Check the following while taking the test drive:

• Brakes
• Accelerator
• Speedometer and the clutches

If there is constant vibration of the steering, there can be some problems with the engine

7) Check the Paperwork Thoroughly: Going through the paperwork check-list before finalizing the deal is a must. This process will help you avoid any suspicious or stolen vehicles. Consider the following check-list:

• Registration (R.C.) book:

The registration books contain information like the date of registration, chassis number, engine number etc. As this book is issued by the RTO, it is your number one priority in the check-list.

• Original Invoice:

Ask the owner of the used car for the original invoice.

• Taxation book:

RTO requires the owner to pay the tax once, and it is mentioned in the taxation book. Check for tax payment.

• PUC certificate:

Check for the validity of the PUC certificate.

8) Ask for the Insurance Papers: Ask the seller for the insurance papers. He should definitely have it, and once you buy the vehicle, you need to change the ownership of the insurance. If the car does not have any insurance, you need to have one in the first place. It’s not necessary that the seller would also transfer the car insurance policy at the time of selling the vehicle, and therefore, make sure that you have bought the car insurance before taking your vehicle on the road. There are many car insurance companies in India which provide various benefits and offers. You can buy car insurance online, after searching for the best-suited policy.

9) Do Not Hesitate to Bargain: You should definitely bargain when you notice that the second-hand car requires some additional maintenance as well.

10) Know the Ownership Transfer Process: Once you buy the car from the seller, you get the ownership of the car. Hence it becomes necessary to inform the RTO about the ownership transfer. This process has to be completed within the stipulated time.

Conclusion: Buying a second-hand car is a big decision, and you will have to go through a lot of research process. For instance, if the insurance policy is not transferred, then you are in the soup. It is essential that you get the insurance policy transferred in your name unless you won’t be able to claim in case of any loss or damage to your vehicle in future.

Even though it is a second-hand car, it is a first-hand vehicle for you, so make sure you check all the points mentioned above before buying your second-hand car. Have a happy and safe driving!