What are the questions I should ask when buying a used car?

Apprehensions engross us when we think of buying a used car. The questions that arise in our mind can puzzle us whether to buy a second-hand vehicle or not. This can lead to uncertainty and deferring the decision endlessly.

This is not limited to some particular person, but the majority of the people. We can eliminate, or at least reduce, the dilemma by preparing ourselves to ask the right questions before the purchase. You can prepare the questions, to be asked to the seller, in advance.

The answers will clarify our doubts and clear our mind of the confusion. Consequently, we can take the decision regarding the purchase of a used car.

Questions that you should ask when buying a car

Getting honest answers to the questions will give the requisite info about the vehicle’s condition. At the same time, we must be more careful while buying from individual sellers. Many a time, there may not be any data or evidence to confirm the technical quality of the vehicle. In this case, buying from a reliable used car dealer may be a better option. Let us see some of the questions that could be asked to the seller while buying a used car. 

Details of accidents in the past?

You can ask the seller about the accidents in the past. Any major accident causing human life or extensive repair. You can check records and find out about the accident if there was any fatality. However, not all the accidents will be available in the record. Therefore, you have to rely on the words of the seller.

What is the Service Status?

Where, how and in what periodicity the vehicle was serviced. Preventive maintenance was being undertaken or only corrective maintenance. A properly serviced vehicle at stipulated periodicity will have more technical life than a not properly serviced one. Nowadays, the service centres are connected through an intranet. Hence, you can check the seller’s statement through the records available in the computer system of service centres. Thereby, you can ascertain the technical quality of the vehicle.

What is the reason for the sale?

This question actually aims at finding out whether he/ she is selling the vehicle subsequent to an accident or not. The answer to this question will also depend on the honesty of the individual. He or she can make cock and bull story about the reason for the sale. Try to identify the actual reason for the sale. If the individual is planning to buy another vehicle, or a similar reason, is acceptable.

Are there any particular defects or malfunctions that require monitoring/ repair?

There could be certain minor complaints or defects that have appeared during the usage. The malfunction may not be major, however, will require constant monitoring. For example, some vehicles may have difficulty in gearshift from first gear to second gear. The problem may be a manufacturing defect and hence the repair may not be feasible. 

Who all were driving this car?

The vehicle’s performance will depend on the driver too. A single-person-driven vehicle will be a better choice. It can show peculiar defects if multiple persons drove the car. Besides, people also prefer cars owned by doctors, advocates etcetera. As the vehicle may not have run too much distance and the components will be in good condition. Many do not prefer a car, which had been used as a taxi. You can negotiate for a better deal even if you buy it.  

What is the mileage?

The mileage that is reflected on paper will not be correct more often. Only the individual can tell you the exact/ approximate mileage from their experience. 

Can a mechanic inspect the car?

The answer to the question must be “Yes”. The seller should not object the inspection by a mechanic if the car is technically fit. There is some foul play, in case, he or she is not much optimistic about the idea. The seller may be hiding some technical issues. You can terminate the discussion at the same moment. An expert mechanic will be able to identify the problems and performance of the vehicle by driving it for a limited distance. 

Has there been any major replacement?

Frequent use, wear and tear or damage due to accident can cause replacement of components. You need to ascertain from the seller whether any major component has been replaced in the past. The replacement also can affect the overall performance of the vehicle. Hence, you need to undertake a proper test drive to analyse the technical condition of the vehicle. 

Are all documents up to date?

This is a normally followed aspect. Scrutiny of insurance and other documents related to the vehicle has to be undertaken by the buyer. All the documents must be up to date when you purchase the vehicle. The due date of insurance, Pollution certificate etcetera should be at least one month (or more) from the date of purchase. 

Is there any hypothecation pending?

Many people take a bank loan to buy vehicles. The hypothecation will subsequently be endorsed in the RC book/ vehicle document. The hypothecation has to be removed from the document on repayment of the loan amount. However, people may miss out the same or defer it thinking about the procedure involving bank and RT office. You have to get the seller to remove the hypothecation seal lest it is still pending on the document. 

So, if you are planning to buy a used car never hesitate to ask these important questions to your dealer.  Ask as many questions related to the car you find and clear your doubts; evaluate the vehicle you are about to buy to make a safe investment.