What to Pay Attention to When Buying a Used Car

Buying a used car can be a more affordable alternative to purchasing a brand-new one — but there are several important points to keep in mind. In this guide, we will explore what you should look out for when buying a used vehicle. To help you find the right used vehicle and ensure a smooth buying experience, we will walk you through the research and pre-purchase stages step by step.

Determine Your Needs and Budget: Before purchasing a used car, it is essential to clearly define what type of vehicle you need and how much you can afford to spend. We will also address one of the most common questions: “What is a good mileage for a used car?” If you plan to travel with your family, you might prefer a spacious model with a large interior, while for city driving, a compact car could be more practical. When setting your budget, remember to account not only for the purchase price but also for taxes, insurance, maintenance, and repair costs.

Do Market Research: Check the current prices and features of the brands and models that interest you. Online car listing platforms, authorized dealer websites, and used car guides can help you make comparisons. Reading user reviews and evaluations of different models can also help you identify the car that best suits your needs.

Set a Mileage Limit: Decide what mileage range you are comfortable with. While higher mileage often means a lower price, it may also indicate more wear and tear. For diesel vehicles in particular, mileage plays a crucial role in assessing engine life.

When buying a used car, mileage is an important factor, but not the only one. If you are wondering what mileage is acceptable, keep in mind that the car’s condition, maintenance history, and overall care are just as important. A low-mileage vehicle is not always in better condition, and a higher-mileage one may perform perfectly well if it has been properly maintained. As a general guideline; for gasoline cars, under 150,000 km is ideal, up to 200,000 km is reasonable, and anything above 250,000 km requires closer inspection. For diesel cars, under 200,000 km is ideal, up to 300,000 km is reasonable, and anything above 350,000 km should be examined carefully. These are only general benchmarks — always consider the vehicle’s model, year, and how it has been used.

When you decide on a vehicle, inspect it thoroughly before finalizing the purchase. Check for any damage, repainting, or rust on the body and paintwork. Examine the interior for wear or dirt, listen to the engine while it is running, and check for unusual sounds or exhaust smoke. Inspect the condition of the tires and braking system.

Test the car’s overall driving performance, including handling, braking, and steering response. If possible, drive it under different road conditions (city and highway) and test different driving modes such as sport, comfort, or eco.

Get a professional inspection from a trusted auto appraisal service. Carefully review the inspection report to learn about the car’s accident history, mechanical condition, and any potential issues. This report will also help you assess the vehicle’s true market value and strengthen your position when negotiating.

Ensure that all documents — including the registration, tax record, insurance, and inspection certificates — are complete and valid. Run a Tramer inquiry to check the car’s accident and damage records.

Read the sales contract carefully and make sure you understand every clause before signing. Always complete the title transfer through a notary before making payment. Do not forget to bring all the required documents for the transfer process.

Documents Required When Buying a Used Car:

Sales contract: Must be notarized. Vehicle registration document: Required for the transfer. Tax clearance certificate: Confirms there is no outstanding MTV (motor vehicle tax) debt. Traffic insurance: Must be arranged before registration. Identification: Photocopies of both the buyer’s and the seller’s IDs.

Additional Tips: Research the seller whenever possible and make sure you are buying from a trustworthy source. Do not hesitate to negotiate the price based on the inspection report and market rates. Make sure to obtain the most suitable traffic insurance for your vehicle. Check whether the car has received regular maintenance and review its service history. Remember — taking your time and paying attention to every detail is key when buying a used car. By following these steps, you can make an informed decision and minimize the risk of fraud.

After purchasing your car, make sure to get the right traffic insurance. You may also want to consider an automobile insurance. Once the title transfer is complete, register your car at the nearest notary public. Follow the maintenance schedule recommended in the owner’s manual and have periodic services done on time. Regular maintenance will extend your car’s lifespan and reduce the risk of breakdowns. Keep your car clean by washing and detailing it both inside and out at regular intervals. Pay particular attention during winter months to prevent rust caused by road salt and moisture. Check tire pressure and wear frequently, and make sure you are using tires suited to the season.

Lastly, always keep a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher in your car for emergencies. You never know when you might need them. For optimal engine health and performance, choose Petrol Ofisi’s high-quality oils and fuels. From its extensive product range, you can select the right oils and fuels designed for your vehicle’s needs to ensure maximum protection and efficiency. Remember, proper maintenance and safety come before everything else. Enjoy every journey safely with Petrol Ofisi’s trusted products.