Buying a used car can be a smart decision — but only if you do it with awareness. One small mistake can turn a good deal into regret. Below are 50 key points to help you choose the right second-hand car and avoid common traps.
- Check the service history – Make sure the car was serviced regularly at authorized centers.
- Verify the odometer reading – Look for signs of tampering or unrealistic mileage.
- Confirm the RC (Registration Certificate) – Cross-check the owner’s name, engine number, and chassis number.
- Check insurance validity – Ensure active insurance is available and transferable.
- Check registration state – Out-of-state cars can be tricky to transfer.
- Look for pending challans or fines – Verify through the Parivahan or RTO portal.
- Ask about accident history – Any major accident repairs or frame damage should raise concern.
- Inspect the paint quality – Uneven paint might indicate repairs or accidents.
- Check body panel gaps – Uneven gaps could mean bodywork or damage repair.
- Observe exhaust smoke – Blue or black smoke indicates engine issues.
- Take a proper test drive – Feel the engine, gearbox, brakes, and suspension.
- Test braking performance – Any vibration or pulling to one side is a red flag.
- Check suspension response – Listen for rattles or unusual noises on rough roads.
- Steering condition – Should be smooth and responsive, not too tight or loose.
- Clutch feel – If it catches too high, it may need replacement soon.
- Gear shifting smoothness – Rough or noisy shifts could mean gearbox wear.
- Check the AC cooling – It should cool effectively within seconds.
- Inspect all electricals – Lights, indicators, wipers, horn — everything should work.
- Examine the tires – Check tread depth and even wear across all tires.
- Check the spare tire and toolkit – Often missing in older cars.
- Battery condition – Check manufacturing date and voltage output.
- Look for windshield cracks – Even small cracks can expand later.
- Door locks and seals – Should close properly and prevent water leakage.
- Seat belts – Test each one for proper locking and retraction.
- Interior smell and condition – Moldy or damp smell indicates water leakage.
- Check under the car – Look for oil leaks, rust, or fluid drips.
- Examine exhaust pipe – Excessive soot or noise means wear.
- Engine oil level and color – Dirty or dark oil = poor maintenance.
- Coolant condition – Brownish coolant suggests head gasket or overheating issue.
- Model year and variant – Older variants may have expensive or rare parts.
- Number of previous owners – More owners usually mean more wear.
- Match engine and chassis numbers – Must match RC details exactly.
- Check infotainment and camera – Small issues can add repair costs.
- Dashboard warning lights – Ensure none are glowing after ignition.
- Tire brand and size consistency – Mixed brands affect handling.
- Fuel type and efficiency – Choose what suits your usage (petrol, diesel, CNG).
- If CNG fitted, check leakage – Must be government-approved and leak-free.
- Know RTO transfer fees – So dealers can’t overcharge.
- Fix dealer or broker commission upfront – Avoid surprises later.
- Get a pre-purchase inspection done – A trusted mechanic can reveal hidden faults.
- Collect all keys – Including spare key and remote, if available.
- Check Pollution Certificate (PUC) – Mandatory for all vehicles.
- Transfer insurance in your name – Otherwise claims may get rejected.
- Complete RC transfer process – Use Form 29 and 30 with seller’s signature.
- Get seller’s ID proof – Helps if any dispute arises later.
- Inspect car in daylight – Nighttime hides scratches and dents.
- Ignore fancy accessories – Focus on mechanical and functional health.
- Compare prices online – Check similar listings on OLX, CarWale, Cars24, etc.
- Research resale value – Some models depreciate faster.
- Make final payment via bank transfer – Avoid cash; keep transaction proof.
- Prepare a proper sale agreement – Signed by both buyer and seller.