Although the pandemic hit the automobile sector, the second-hand car market managed to reach 3.8 million units in 2021. Yes, the used car sector has become more organized with banks offering loans and retailers providing warranties on the cars they sell. While having a car has become more of a necessity nowadays, it is important to research well before purchasing one – especially if it’s a used car.
Hence, to ensure that you don’t end up with sour lemon, here is a user guide to help you with your second-hand car purchase:
Q1. Whom Should You Buy From?
While the internet offers numerous options to choose from, there is a high possibility of getting duped by dealers who are desperately trying to clear their racks. So to get an excellent offer on a used car, it is better to dig a tad deeper to reach out to dealers who have certified cars in their inventory.
Q2. How to Find the Right Car?
Once you’ve chosen your preferred dealer, it is important to find a car that suits your needs. If the price agreed upon is very low, inspect why it could be so. Buying a used car that’s still being manufactured ensures the availability of spare parts. Also, things like age, kilometers on the odometer, and present conditions of the car should be of primary concern while purchasing a second-hand car.
Q3. What About Paperwork?
It’s necessary to check the paperwork of the used car to ensure that you don’t get a visit from the local cops on account of it being used in a crime or stolen. Matching the chassis number with the registration certificate and manufacturing year; verifying its history of repairs and services should top the checklist. Also, check for insurance coverage and no-claim bonus amount indicating zero car accidents.
Q4. Settle for Low Mileage or Not?
While settling for a low mileage second-hand car sounds appealing, it might not be something that’s brag-worthy. When a car is driven infrequently, the plastic and rubber parts on the vehicle are likely to dry out and get brittle. Sure, low mileage can signify minor wear and tear, and car longevity but the chances of other parts drying out due to long waits is high.
Q5. Is Test Drive Necessary?
Yes, a test drive is necessary as it provides a reality check on what you’re settling for. A test drive notifies you in case of any leaks or sounds.
CARS24 Advantage
Trusted partners like CARS24 ensure that customers get the best deal on their used cars. The cars that are listed on their website not only go through a 140+ checkpoint quality test but are also fully refurbished. Their free home delivery service, no-questions-asked seven-day return policy, and six months warranty are the icing on the cake.
Conclusion
Narrowing down on a car of your choice is not easy, whether it is a brand-new model or a used one. While budget is an important deciding factor in a second-hand car purchase, the above-mentioned points should help you get a great deal.
