Buying secondhand car? Hacks decoded

New Delhi: A pre-owned car is an affordable vehicle that can provide the transportation you need to get by in your daily lives, especially in times when cars are considered to be necessities, not luxuries.

Shopping for used car takes the same amount of patience and caution you exercise when you are looking for a brand-new model. The closer it fits your needs the more use you’re going to get out of the automobile. The prudence that you show now is going to have its benefits later on.

The old adage “marry in haste, repent at leisure” holds true in this situation, according to Himanshu, Founder, ItzEazy.in. You do not want any surprises to spring up after the money has changed hands.

Before going out to buy a used car, you should consider the following so that you make the best possible decision:

– Manage your finances

It is always better to have a rough idea of the amount you can afford on the used car, while not forgoing the additional costs of insurance and other funds.

– Choosing the model

Internet is available with a wide range of information and is a good source to rummage around on automobiles and their specifications. Having the right specifications in mind will help you in narrowing down the search and thereby choosing the right one.

– Certificate matters

A certified pre-owned vehicle will usually have fewer kilometers on it and to be certified it must pass a thorough inspection. While purchasing certified pre-owned vehicles, you not only get the additional extended warranty plus any remaining original manufacturer warranty.

– Dealing options

You can either buy the automobile from an individual, a dealer or also from the internet which has in recent times turned out to be a good option for trading old cars. The web offers fine offers and discounts.

– Conduct a thorough walk-around Inspection

An individual may allow you to get the car checked from a mechanic but a dealer may not be that interested. In those cases don’t refrain from checking the car – engine conditions, bodyline, tire conditions, battery condition – on your own.

– A test drive always helps

If the car looks good, you also need to make sure that it feels good and runs well too.

– Ensure the paperwork

It may be possible that you are unknowingly lured into buying a stolen automobile at a tempting price. To avoid this, it is important to ensure that the paperwork is done properly before finalising the deal. According to Puneet Pathania, Advocate, Tax Consultant, the checklist for paperwork is: Registration book, taxation book, invoice, and PUC certificate.

– Ensure the transfer of ownership

Fill out all the required forms, with proper signatures, and submit them in your area’s jurisdiction. The receipt should be there within 15-18 days and the name-changed RC copy by the 40th-45th day.

– Get insurance in your name

It’s as important to have a valid insurance policy copy in your name as it is to get the registration transferred. If the RC is registered in your name and the policy is still under the previous owner’s, then the insurance policy stands nullified.

– Ensure proper cleaning before the first drive

Before you start using your new automobile, get it thoroughly cleaned up – both interior and exterior. Change the fluids, if necessary and make quick fixes, if required. (ANI)