Are you looking to buy a used car? Then, you have come to the right place. Many Indians are now opting for used vehicles, and if we look at statistics, a surge in the used car market as more and more people are now opting for private transport. Whatever your reason be, we want you to know that you have made the right choice.
You will have to look at lots of different cars and then decide which one to buy. It’s a big decision. Buying a used car can be nerve-wracking, but there are many things you can do to reduce the battery, engine, and mileage issues, etc.
However, do you know what you should check before buying a secondhand car? How should you go about finding a vehicle that will give you the most for your money? No worries. Read on to know the things to consider while planning on purchasing a second-hand car.
At Adarsha Auto World, the best Maruti showroom in Hyderabad, we have listed some tips to consider when buying a second hand car. Hopefully, after reading this, you can avoid some of the common pitfalls people experience when buying a used car.
7 Things to follow before buying a used car
You need to make sure that you do not buy a used vehicle that will end up draining your money. Therefore, if you plan to purchase a secondhand car, you will want to keep the following things in mind.
1. Budget
Before setting out to buy a second-hand car or a used vehicle, you need to know how much you are willing to spend on it. This will save you from making pointless trips to sellers who are asking for more than what you can afford.
2. Motor history
The mileage of a second-hand car is a significant factor in determining its value. If the vehicle’s history is known, this can be taken into account when valuing the vehicle. If there is evidence that the mileage has been clocked, this will significantly reduce the price of the car.
3. Car condition
Used cars are known for their poor conditions after being driven for years already. So don’t just check if your future ride is still in good condition after being driven by its previous owner, but also get it checked by an expert mechanic before finalizing your purchase.
4. Safety features
One of the most important aspects of any used vehicle is its safety record. If possible, find out when the last time the airbag system was installed and if there have been any previous issues such as faulty wiring or other problems.
5. Mechanical problems
Mechanical defects cause several car accidents. These can be anything from faulty brakes or suspension to faulty gearboxes or engines. It’s best to take the car to a garage and get it checked over before you pay the cash.
6. Age of the vehicle
The age of the vehicle is another important consideration when buying a used car. You might not mind driving around in an old banger if it means saving money, but if safety and reliability are major concerns for you, then it’s best to look if safety checks are completed.
7. Mileage
When buying a car, it’s essential to think about how many kilometers you’re likely to be doing each year and how your vehicle will cope with that distance. In addition, it’s worth finding out what you’ll need to do in terms of maintenance and servicing to make sure your car can handle wear and tear.
Buying a second hand car, especially with the negotiation power of purchasing it through an auction is always tempting for most people. But it is always advisable to be thorough in your research before you start bidding for one. Here are some tips that can help you buy a good car at an auction:
- Always perform a vehicle inspection by those who have experience in inspecting vehicles.
- Know the value of the model you are buying and do not end up paying above its market value.
- Take into consideration the cost of services that may come up in the future like spare parts or services.
- Find out about the history of the vehicle and whether there are any pending claims against it.
- If you’re buying from an individual, have them take care of all the details related to getting the title transferred from their name to yours, so you can avoid being at fault if there are any problems down the road.
Second hand cars are undoubtedly more affordable than brand new cars. Everyone will have unique priorities, but the factors mentioned will help you make the right decision during the car buying process.
