Last Updated on May 14, 2020 by Automobile Hive

You have to do proper research even if you are buying a second hand vehicle. Checking if the car is working properly or not is not enough. You have to dig deeper than that. In this article, we will talk about the things to consider while buying a second hand vehicle.

Before buying a used vehicle always make a list of things like what type of car you want. Also set aside a budget for the car. After that, you can look for the different brand options according to your preference.

1) A Proper Research

Always do proper research while buying and 2nd hand vehicle. The condition of the car, how long has it been used, did the vehicle had any trouble, are some of the things to be searched. Also, whether the vehicle was a part of any kind of accident. Likewise, check who was the previous owner of the vehicle and what the vehicle was used for.

2) The exterior

Thoroughly check out the vehicle. Whether the vehicle has starches or not and is the paint still there. You should also look for any dent on the car. Search if the car has any irregularities. Any disfiguring may hint a crash or accident. See if the vehicle has any rust on it or not. Review the condition of the tyres. Also, inspect all the headlights and tail lights. Similarly, check if the doors are in good condition.

3) The interior

Fully inspect the inside of the car as well. See if the car has been cleaned properly or not. whether the seats are in good condition or not. Does the starting wheel work properly or not. Look for any damage on the dashboard. Also, confirm the variant tier correspond to the age that the odometer shows. Likewise, open the boot of the car to see if any damage or in general is in good condition. Similarly, check the windows go up and down nicely.

4) Start the vehicle

Before starting the car check if the engine is cold or not. A cold engine indicates it has not been started before. The cold engine will show you any defect on the engine. Run it for at least 30 minutes. After that check the engine oil condition by removing the dipstick. Similarly, review the lights, indicators and horn. Check for rubber hoses, belt and radiator to conform all of there are in good condition. Likewise, inspect the coolant. While starting, see how much smoke comes out. Also, check the brakes as well.

5) Maintenance records.

Ask for the maintenance records of the vehicle. Also, ask how frequently the bike had been serviced.

6) Test ride

After you have checked the vehicle thoroughly and asked for all the necessary questions, take it out for a spin. Ride the car from high to low speed in all gears. Check how it performs in the pitched road and bad road if possible. Carefully hear if the car makes any noise and the brakes work nicely or not. Drive without holding the starting and check if the car pulls in to one direction even on straight roads. This will tell you about any issues with the wheel alignment.

7) Paper works

Check if the bike has or had any insurance done or not. Be very careful and check every paper works of the bike. Check the VIN of the car as well. You may be part of a scam.

If the vehicle fits in your category, go for it. And do negotiate the price if you think the car’s price is a bit high compared to its condition.

Also check out: Things to know before buying a second hand bike