Top 7 Tips to Check Before Buying a Used Car

Top 7 Tips to Check Before Buying a Used Car

1. Test Drive:

• Smooth Start: Ensure that starting the car is a smooth process without any unusual noises.
• Engine Inspection: Open the bonnet while the engine is running to check for any weird noises.
• Tailpipe Check: Examine the tailpipe for smoke or oil spouts.
• Gear Shifting: Test the gear shifting to ensure it's effortless without the need for extra pressure.
• Clutch Engagement: Engage and release the clutch to ensure the vehicle moves forward gently without jerks or vibrations.
• Suspension Test: Take the car for a ride, feel the suspension, and check for squeaks or odd vibrations. Test it on sharp turns for any issues.

2. Document Verification:

• Registration Certificate (RC): Confirm the legality and ownership by checking for a genuine RC. Ensure it's not a duplicate, and if buying from a dealer, check for their name to avoid being the third buyer.
• VIN and Engine No.: Verify that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and Engine number match on the RC and the car.
• Insurance: Transfer insurance to your name, ensuring it's valid for at least three weeks post-purchase.
• Service Book: Examine the service book for consistent maintenance. Ask questions about any dents or major scratches.
• Road Tax Certificate: Confirm that no taxes are due, as it's a one-time payment during the car's purchase.
• Pollution Under Control Certificate: Check emission levels through this certificate to assess the engine's condition.
• Loan NOC: If the car was purchased on a loan, ensure the Loan No Objection Certificate (NOC) confirms all dues are paid.

3. Odometer Tampering:

• Analog Odometer: Look for marks or scratches on digits and check their alignment.
• Digital Odometer: Inspect for fingerprints or smudges on the inside of the plastic.
• Service Book Reference: Use the service book to verify details with the service center, as tampering may not be easily detectable.

4. Vehicle Modifications:

• Illegal Modifications: Check for any illegal changes, such as fancy number plates, loud exhausts, roof modifications, engine mods, wide tires, body lifting kits, or changes in car color.
• Verify Modifications: Ensure the car does not have any modifications listed above, as they may impact the vehicle's performance and legality.

5. Online Price Research:

• Pre-Research: Before hunting for a used car, select a model and check online for details such as mileage and age to understand the fair price. This information helps in negotiating the deal.

6. Timing of Purchase:

• Decision Timing: Take your time to consider all options and make a decision when you feel it's right. Delay in decision-making can be a wise move to avoid hasty choices.

7. Spinny Advantage:

• Quality Control: Spinny offers a stringent quality control process with 200 checkpoints, ensuring that only 1 in 20 cars meet their standards.
• 5-Day Return Policy: If a purchased car doesn't meet expectations, Spinny allows a no-questions-asked 100% refund within 5 days.

What Are the Documents Required for Buying a Used Car?

• Registration Certificate (RC)
• Invoice of Car Purchase
• Insurance Documents
• Service Records Book
• Forms 28, 29, and 30
• No Objection Certificate (NOC)
• Road Tax Receipt
• Certification for Bi-Fuel Kits
• Emission Certificate
• Owner’s Manual