Buying a second-hand vehicle can be an exciting choice in the UAE, as it is one of the states known for its massive used car market. However, purchasing a used car involves certain risks that cannot be ignored. It is essential to be diligent about the car-buying process to ensure that you make a wise investment and a secure purchase.
Hence, thoroughly inspecting the vehicle is one crucial step to avoid hidden faults and make a used car purchase worthwhile. To help you make an informed decision and purchase a second-hand car safely, we have compiled a comprehensive checklist to inspect a used car.
Although buying a used car is an economical solution and a wise investment to have a personal vehicle, you should also be aware of the risks involved in buying a pre-owned car in the UAE before starting the purchase process.
Inspection Checklist for Buying a Used Car
When you decide to buy a used car from a dealership in the UAE, you can rest assured that the process will be handled professionally. All the necessary inspections and paperwork will be completed for you. However, there may be situations where you need to conduct a car inspection yourself, such as when buying a car online from a different emirate or a private owner.
In such cases, it’s essential to know what to look for and what to avoid in a used car. That’s why it’s crucial to be aware of the car inspection checklist and common scams so you can make an informed purchase and avoid any unpleasant surprises down the road.
Let’s now take a closer look at the most important things to check when you inspect a used car.
Bonnet Inspection
The engine is the main component to inspect if you want to ensure that a car is maintained correctly. The condition of the engine will determine the overall maintenance of the vehicle. To check the engine, make sure the color of the engine oil is translucent or light pink. If the oil is dark, it means it needs to be changed. Additionally, if the engine is rusty or leaking, it’s wise to consider buying another car, as replacing the engine is too costly.
In addition to inspecting the vehicle, make sure all other fluids—such as coolant, brake, power steering, and gearbox fluids—are changed regularly. The condition of the battery also matters a lot in the car inspection. A poor battery will cause trouble starting the car and making electrical functions work. Additionally, it’s essential to look for any recent repairs done to the engine parts.
Car Body Inspection
If you are considering buying a car that is older than five years and has no warranty left, you need to be extra cautious. It’s essential to check the condition of the vehicle body thoroughly. This includes inspecting the paint, rusty parts, boot, window mirrors, exhaust, and tires. If you notice fresh paint but rusty parts, it could be a sign that the owner tried to cover up previous damage.
Additionally, look for smoke in the exhaust since this may be a sign that the engine has burned. Make sure the wheels are properly aligned and the tires are in good condition—they shouldn’t be more than four years old. It’s also essential to take the car for a test drive to assess the suspension condition.
If you find any damage to the body of the car, ask the owner to repair it before you make the purchase. If they refuse to fix it, it may be best to look for another vehicle. Furthermore, if the car has been in any major accidents, it’s best to avoid buying it altogether, as it could lead to problems down the road.
Interior and Electronics Inspection
When buying a car, it’s essential to focus on the interior as much as the exterior. The comfort and convenience of the car’s features are key factors to consider. During a test drive, pay attention to the seats and their comfort level. Check the seat fabric for any tears or damages.
Further test all the electric functions of the car, including the infotainment system, to ensure they work correctly. Also, make sure the car’s safety features, such as the Anti-lock Braking System and airbags, are not replaced. It’s crucial to test the air conditioner, brakes, and lights of the vehicle to ensure they are all functioning correctly.
In addition, take some time to play around with the car’s different features to ensure they work as expected. Make a list of any issues or malfunctions you notice and share it with the owner. This will give you a better chance to negotiate the price based on any necessary repairs or replacements.
Vehicle History and Document Inspection
Performing a detailed inspection of a vehicle is an essential part of purchasing the right car. However, it is equally important to check the vehicle’s history. You can enter the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or Chassis number of any car on the Road and Transport Authority (RTA) website in the UAE to check the history.
This will provide you with a transparent report on the vehicle’s history, including information on insurance, warranty, and registration documents. You can find information about previous accidents and if the car was stolen or imported. By reviewing this information, you can make an informed decision about whether purchasing the vehicle is worth it.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to inspect a used car, you can start your used car buying journey seamlessly and have a rewarding experience. Additionally, there is always an option to get your vehicle inspected by an authorized center. Buying a used car can be exhausting, but it is worthwhile when you find your dream car in decent condition. Therefore, it is advisable to examine the vehicle thoroughly and make an intelligent purchase.
