Nowadays, due to the rising prices of new cars, many people are turning to buying old cars. This can be a smart and economical option. But do you know that buying a used car can also be a bit risky? If proper checking is not done, then there can be problems later. Therefore, it is very important to keep some important things in mind before buying a car.
In this article, we will tell you what things should be kept in mind while buying a used car and how to make a good deal. Whether you are buying a car for the first time or already have experience, these tips will prove beneficial for you.
Buying an old car is a big decision. It not only saves money, but you can also get the car of your choice at an affordable price. But for this, correct information and caution are very important. Many people sell their old cars in the market, but not every car needs to be in good condition. Some cars look shiny from the outside but can be damaged from the inside.
Therefore, you have to act wisely. We will tell you in simple language what things should be checked and what things should be kept in mind before buying an old car so that your money is spent in the right place.
Important things to know before buying a used car
- Check the exterior and interior condition of the car
First of all, check the car carefully from the outside, especially in the daylight. Are there any scratches or dents on the exterior? If yes, try to understand whether it is minor or major damage. Also, check the seats, dashboard, and buttons inside. If the seats are torn or the buttons are not working, it means that the car has not been properly maintained. It is best to see the car in daylight, as minor flaws can be hidden at night.
- Don’t forget to take a test drive
Before buying any car, do a test drive, no matter how reliable the seller is. A test drive will tell you how the engine is performing. Are the brakes working properly? Is there any problem with the steering? If there is a strange sound or the car is shaking while driving, be alert. Check its performance by driving on different roads for at least 15-20 minutes.
- Check the documents
It is very important to check the original documents of the car. Check the registration certificate (RC), insurance papers, and pollution certificate. Are these documents genuine? Check the car number and the owner’s name in the RC. If there is any loan running on the car, then also get its information. By checking all these things, you can avoid any legal trouble later.
- Engine and mechanic opinion
The engine is the most important part of the car. Open the engine and see if oil is leaking from anywhere. If you do not have much knowledge about engines, then take a trusted mechanic along. He can tell you exactly what the condition of the engine is and how much it may cost in the future. With a small check, you can avoid major damage. The better the engine, the longer the car will last.
- Check mileage and service history
Make sure to check how many kilometers the car has run so far. If it has run a lot, it may be too old and will need repairs soon. Also, check the service history. Has the car been serviced from time to time? If yes, it means that the car has been properly maintained.
Things to keep in mind while buying a used car
- Do not make hasty decisions
Do not take a decision to buy any car in a hurry. Many times sellers try to sell the car in a hurry, but you should be patient. Think calmly, investigate, and then take any decision.
- Compare the price
Check the price of other cars of the same model in the market so that you get an idea of the correct rate. Also check online websites to know the correct price of the car of your choice. If a car is being sold at a very low price, then definitely check whether there is any fraud or not.
- Buy from a trusted place
Buy a car only from a known, trusted dealer or a good platform. You may also get some guarantees when buying from a dealer, such as free servicing or repairs. If you are buying a car from an unknown person, be cautious and do a thorough investigation.
- Decide on a budget in advance
Before buying a car, decide what your budget is. Not just the price of the car, add the cost of service, transfer of documents and other extras as well. This will help you make the right decision.
- Get the insurance transferred
If the car already has insurance, get it transferred to your name. This is legally mandatory. Also, check the validity of the insurance so that you do not need to take a new insurance or not.
If you do proper research and due diligence before buying a used car, it can be a wise decision. The above-mentioned steps and tips will help you save money and get a good and reliable car.
