The process involves an eyeful and comprehensive approach that allows you to take a call in evaluating the worth of the car with the money you are set to pay. After all, if there are any hidden issues and if those are not sorted or discussed beforehand, it could incur unnecessary recurring costs and add new problems. 

At X Drive, one of the best used car dealers in Trivandrum, we provide you with comprehensive tips to follow up on before settling down with your new car.

Things to keep in mind before buying a used car

If you are buying a second hand car from any dealer or individual, there are few things that need to be checked upon. With that said, let us look out on the checks you should keep in mind before buying a used car in Trivandrum:

Checking the Vehicle Conditions

First and foremost is to check the vehicle conditions. Check if there is any wear and tear or damaged parts due to lack of maintenance or even past-accidents. Additionally, keep in mind there are always three key things to tick off, which include:

     1. Exteriors 

Check for any visible dents on the outside of the car. Take an ample amount of time closely observing each and every single part of the car from the outside to see if there is any minor or major damage. 

There are chances that the previous owners might use heavy paint to cover up a prior accident on the vehicle and might hide the fact from the new buyer. So, rub your hands against the car to check for any abnormality or a possibility of a repainting. 

Also, right from rearview mirrors to bonnets to different lights and even door knobs, keep a stern eye on all these parts.

     2. Interiors

Coming to the interiors of the car, including the electronic panels, metres, dashboard, steering, ACs, interior lights, seat belts, hand brakes, and all other components are in proper condition. Keep in mind that even minor damage could cost you huge in the future and the consequences are countless.

     3. Undercarriage and Engine checks

Using a hydraulic life, ensure checking the underbelly of the car and look out for any possible dents. Check for any rusts, leaks, or dents on the engine. 

It is even better if you do a mini-test ride as it can help you assess the actual condition of the car. This includes weird noises from the engine, noises while braking, issues in transmission (applicable for both manual and auto vehicles), and any other noticeable indicators. 

If you notice any issue, be it any small, you can demand an explanation from the owner and this could save you from investing in the car. 

Checking Service Records

All vehicles are serviced at any point in time once the first owner buys it. Therefore, they will have the maintenance records and bills for every change/modification or even generic servicing they might have done. 

Most of the scenarios, the owners might be negligent in keeping a track record of servicing. In such a case, you can request the owner to show you the service centre, and using the registration, the service center can provide detailed information about the car and all the nitty-gritty details of servicing aspects to you. Using this data, you can decide if the car is suitable for you or not. 

Checking the Vehicle Documents and Loan Papers

A Vehicle Registration Certificate holds the key to the authenticity of the car you are planning to purchase. This comprises the complete portfolio of the car’s owner’s name, engine, and chassis number marked. The certificate helps in easing the process of transferring the name to you, if you intend to buy the car anyhow.

Other important documents that you should check are the road tax and pollution certificates. Make sure they are paid up to date by the previous owner and there is no lapse in this. And, check for any existing loan or lapses, as it might be a major issue while transferring the papers. Ask for a NOC from the seller as all finance companies would provide to prove no outstanding dues are remaining.

Check Insurance status and transfer NCB

Vehicle insurance paper gives you the proof, if the vehicle has been involved in any mishaps, accidents, or natural calamity-led damages. The coverage documents help you to decode the current conditions and help determine any recurring cost and valuation of the car. 

Additionally, if you have received a No Claim Bonus for not claiming the policy for a previously owned car policy, you can request the insurance company to transfer the bonus points to you.  Remember, the NCB points only get transferred for an individual and not the vehicle.

Check for any Legal Pending Case

There is a possibility of a seller selling their car with a criminal case pending over one or more incidents. In this case, the buyer has to conduct several checks. 

First, it is advisable to check with the National Crime Records Bureau or visit your local police station and check if the car is free from any legal case or not. 

Then, check if there are any e-challans issued on the vehicle. The seller is responsible for clearing any fines concerning the vehicle. You can request the seller to open the Vahan portal and prove there are no outstanding e-challans left to be paid.

Final thoughts

To conclude, check each and every possible point before buying a used car. If you are having any difficulties finding a used car in Trivandrum or if you would like to save time on all the checks then prefer buying from a used car dealer in Trivandrum. 

At XDrive, we help you bridge a variety of used car sellers. We have a large list of used cars for sale in Trivandrum. All vehicles listed on our portals are verified, which helps you in confidently deciding on purchasing one. Reach us out at our official website and we are sure to help you find your dream car.