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WHEN you are buying a used car, it is important that you know what not to do before you understand what needs to be done.
So, here are seven things you must avoid when buying a used car.
Going into it blindly
If you start looking for a car without deciding what you actually want, you might end up with a car that does not match your needs. Believe us, you do not want to end up with the wrong vehicle.
First and foremost, decide why you are buying a car and what you need it for.
Do you simply want a daily driver, a family car or something for fun activities like road trips or touring?
Depending on that, you can either get a hatchback or a sedan, a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) or a sport utility vehicle (SUV).
Decide why you are buying a car and what you need it for and select a body type that best suits your needs.
Not finalising a budget
Next, there is the budget.
Looking for a used car without finalising a budget is also a big no-no.
It is another common mistake, and you will either end up confused about your choices or, worse, with the wrong car.
Get your priorities straight and decide what you want to spend before looking for a used car.
Of course, if you find that right car, in the best possible condition, and you can go over budget, then, surely, go for it.
Otherwise, try and find the best possible option within your stipulated budget.
Not inspecting properly
Not inspecting the car properly before buying is also something you must avoid at all costs.
From the outside, the car might look in mint condition, but it is always possible the mechanicals are not in good condition.
Not asking for test drive
Ask for a proper test drive of at least 10 kilometres. If you know a trusted mechanic, take them along and let them have a look and give you an assessment before you make the decision.
Make sure you inspect the car properly before you buy the vehicle.
You must also avoid buying a used car without checking the odometer and other gauges of the car.
Check if there is any evidence of tampering (scratches, cracks) in and around the odometer.
If you see signs of tampering with the gauges, or the car’s condition and the odometer reading not matching, then it is probably best to walk away from the deal.
Not checking car’s history
Not checking the history of the car is also a mistake you must avoid making.
If you are buying the car from an organised seller, they will usually have the records for you to verify.
If you are purchasing the vehicle from an individual seller/owner, ask about the history of the car and check all documents, especially if it has had past owners. You can even check for past accident claims and records using the insurance number.
Going for long-term finance options
If you are getting a pre-owned vehicle, it is always advisable to buy it by making a full payment, instead of taking a loan.
Used cars are usually way cheaper than a brand-new version of the same model. Sometimes, they are even 50 percent cheaper than a new vehicle, so it is probably best to save up and buy it in one shot.
On average, you will probably own a used vehicle for about four to six years maximum before replacing it, and you do not want to spend most of that period making monthly instalments. Do you?
Of course, if that is not financially viable, then try to get the least possible loan tenure and find the best interest rates.
For used cars, the return on investment is much higher.
Paying the entire money upfront
You must know when to pay.
Pay a small token amount to fix the deal, but do not transfer the entire amount before you have thoroughly checked the car and the paperwork.
Verify the sellers’ credentials before making the payment, and make sure you can drive away once you have made the final payment, especially if you are dealing with a private seller/owner.
If it is a dealer, then you will probably go through the same process as when buying a new car. — Car & Bike
Online Reporter