When you’ve had enough of inconvenient public transport, the hustle and bustle of everyday commute, maybe it’s time you finally considered getting your own car. Sure it might feel like a rather considerable financial investment, but think of the conveniences a four wheeler would bring your way. A second-hand car is especially a great choice if you’re not very keen on spending the big bucks on a brand new one, just yet. Here’s a convenient quick-guide to go through before you set your heart on one!
Documentation
Whether you end up using your car within the city or across states, it’s always advisable you have a fully documented service history. A car that has been regularly serviced at an authorized service station should make it to the top of your list. Because let’s be honest, you would want to know the internal condition of your car, no matter how good it looks from the outside.
Checklist
You might want to make sure of some other key documents: RTO Tax Receipt, Registration of the Car, Insurance, Original Invoice, and Finance NOC (to make sure it is a genuine NOC and confirm there is no outstanding loan on the car). Remember, a pre-used car purchase requires a little more attention than buying a new one. Checklists are a great way to keep track of important points to keep in mind. If you’re not sure of all the documents you need to prioritise, talking to a friend who has prior experience in second-hand car purchase would be of help.
Cross-check
A common pitfall with pre-used cars, even when it is a certified used car, odometer tampering is something you should look out for. Compare the kilometer distance on the odometer with the vehicle’s maintenance and inspection history. Additionally, there are service station stickers you can counter-check with, which include the kilometer count. Additionally, test-driving your potential choice is a crucial – it instantly gives you a clear idea of the vehicles wear and tear. Take the car for a spin especially in areas you’re usually used to – heavy traffic, highways, whichever context you are used to. Parking the vehicle is another area that allows you the best way to gauge a vehicles easy maneuver and size convenience.
Inspect
While a nicely painted car may instantly impress you, be careful especially if it is less than 4-5 years old. Painted cars could mean there was an accident and it was retouched or even heavy rusting especially if the car was in a coastal area. It’s a great idea to take a trusted mechanic along with you during a detailed car inspection who would notice mechanical irregularities better. Don’t rush into negotiating till you’ve weighed all the pros and cons and are sure that you’re getting a good deal.
Buying your first car is a special experience, even more so when you’ve made the right decision. Be alert and doing your research work beforehand will only make it a more enjoyable one. If you don’t feel too confident making this decision all by yourself, take a friend or a family member along who can offer you a second opinion when you need one. Also remember that buying a car is not really an across-the-counter purchase. It takes some patience and time, but in the end of it you’ll be happy it was all worth the effort. All set? Compare great offers on Used Car Loans (and New Car Loans too!)