Are you looking to buy a second hand car, but aren’t sure what you need to look out for? No worries, we have outlined the most important factors to avoid unexpected surprises.
1. General condition of the vehicle
When buying a used car, it is essential to assess the overall condition of the vehicle. Start by inspecting the bodywork: check for rust, dents, or scratches. This will give you an idea of how well the car has been maintained and if any damage has occurred.
The tires can also provide valuable insights into the car’s condition. Uneven tire wear could indicate suspension issues or alignment problems. Additionally, worn-out or damaged tires can affect the safety of the car and might need to be replaced soon.
Do not forget to check the interior as well. Inspect the seats and dashboard for signs of wear. Be sure to test the electronic systems, such as air conditioning, navigation, and infotainment, to ensure everything is working properly.
2. Car-Pass
If the exterior and interior of the car meet your expectations but you want more assurance about the car’s history, ask for the Car-Pass. This document provides important information about the car’s mileage and maintenance history. The seller is legally required to give you a Car-Pass. You didn’t receive a Car-Pass? In that case you can request to cancel the contract and a full refund.
Mileage
The Car-Pass shows whether the current mileage corresponds with the value shown on the dashboard. A low mileage might seem appealing, but be cautious: sometimes the odometer is tampered with to give the impression of less wear. For a car with high mileage, it is essential to know whether it has been well-maintained, so you can estimate potential repair costs.
Maintenance
The Car-Pass also lists the car’s maintenance history, giving insight into any previous repairs and service work. Be sure to check whether the car has been regularly serviced and if any important maintenances were missed. The Car-Pass will also highlight any incidents, accidents, or manufacturer recalls.
3. Test Drive
Satisfied with the condition of the car? Then it is time for a test drive! During the test drive, you will not only experience how the car drives, but you can also listen for any sounds that might indicate problems. Make sure to test the car at various speeds
4. Compare Prices
If the test drive went smoothly and you are considering making an offer, make sure to compare prices of similar used cars beforehand. Look for cars of the same brand, model, year, and mileage, and compare these on various online platforms.
5. Warranty
When buying a used car, a professional seller is required by law to offer a warranty, typically ranging from 1 to 2 years, depending on the agreement. If the seller refuses to apply the warranty, you can contact the automoto conciliation commission and submit a request for mediation. If you buy from a private seller, there is usually no warranty, so be aware of this risk.
Conclusion: Thorough research pays off
When purchasing a used car, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and inspect the vehicle carefully. By paying attention to factors like maintenance history, mileage, and the car’s overall condition, you can save money and avoid unpleasant surprises. Good luck!
Want to sell your car? Discover the documents you need here.