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Buying a used car is a smart choice. You save money, avoid high depreciation, and often get more features for your budget. But if you’re not careful, a used car can also turn into a costly mistake. Here’s a simple guide to help you buy a used car the right way.
Some most common tips about buying a used car:
Don’t go to buy a used car in dark light, like nighttime or inside a garage that has low light. Take it under direct sunlight to notice everything clearly.
Make sure you inspect the car with someone with some knowledge about cars.
1: Set Your Budget First
Before looking at cars, decide how much you can spend. Remember, the car price is not the only cost. You should also keep money for:
- Registration and transfer fees
- Insurance
- Minor repairs or servicing, and a good idea is to keep 10–15% extra of your budget for after-purchase expenses.
2: Research the Car Model
Before buying, search online for:
- Common problems of that car model
- Fuel average
- Spare parts cost
This small research can save you big money later.
Not all cars age the same. Some models are known for reliability, while others are expensive to maintain.
3: Check the Car Body Carefully
Look at the car from all sides and check:
- Paint color (should be even)
- Gaps between doors and panels
- Rust spots or dents, even paint or panel gaps, can be a sign of an accident.
4. Inspect the Engine & Fluids
Open the hood and check:
- Engine oil (should not be too thick or dirty)
- Coolant level and color
- No oil or water leaks
- start the engine and listen for unusual noises.
5. Look at Tires & Suspension
Tire wear usually means suspension or alignment issues.
- Tires are worn evenly
- Car feels stable on bumps
- No knocking or rattling sounds
6: Test AC & Electronics
Electrical and AC repairs can be expensive.
Always test:
- Air conditioner (cooling should be strong)
- Power windows and mirrors
- Dashboard warning lights
- Screen, camera, and sensors
7. Take a Proper Test Drive
Test drive:
- Drive at slow and high speeds
- Check braking performance
- Feel gear shifting (should be smooth)
- Listen for strange sounds
8: Verify Documents
Before making any payment, make sure that you have checked these all:
- Registration is valid
- No unpaid fines or loans
- Chassis number matches documents
- Service history is available (if possible)
This video is going to help you understand better