Looking for a Second Hand car in Mumbai - Here is a complete buying Guide

A new car in the` showroom is available in a flawless condition, with brand new tyres, untouched engine, unblemished interior and exterior and proper documentation with warranty service. But buying a second-hand car is not that easy as it sounds. You need to make a thorough inspection of the car parts, check all the documents, look into the servicing history with their causes, take a test drive, and finally negotiate the prices properly.

The new generation desires to own a car either to use it as an easy and reliable mode of transportation or to brag about having a luxury lifestyle. If you want to purchase a branded car and is having a low budget, then purchase a second-hand car. Finding a second-hand car in Mumbai is easy. You can get details of old cars from internet services and can contact a reliable car agent. But it is recommended to purchase from someone whom you know and is reliable. Used car valuation is comparatively lower than a new model showcased in the company. Some individuals love to buy a personal car or bike every 2-3 months and then resale them to get a new one. You can consider purchasing these second-hand vehicles as a relatively cheaper price and in good condition.

But, before you purchase a second-hand car, you need to keep certain things in mind. So that you don't get cheated by someone and get a good item at a reasonable price. Here's a complete buying guide for you -

1. A proper homework
Buying a car, that also a pre-owned one, needs a lot of homework. You need to first decide your budget and the purpose of purchasing. For example, if you want to own a car for your family, then look for a large MUV or Multi Utility Vehicle. Suppose that you want a shorts car then you can purchase a second-hand SUV.
Once you decide the model, look for car resale value, check if the spare parts for the used car are available in the market, and gather some important information about the car.
Then you need to find a reliable source who is genuinely involved in the sale of used cars or old bikes like used car dealers, or car brokers. You can also refer to the advertisements published on the internet or in the newspapers, or try some personal referrals. It is always better to purchase from the original owner of the car.
Now if you are financially weak, check your car valuation and then apply for used car loans in financial companies.

2. Checking the Car's condition
The most important things that you need to check are the engine head gasket, engine oil and the coolant colour, exhaust gas colour that is emitted from the tailpipe, suspension, and condition of the tyres. The condition of the dashboard, interior and exterior body, lights, spare wheel, and the underbody rust protection ability are the next things that you need to check properly.
Second-hand cars may look perfect from outside but there may be some underlying problems. Get help from an expert friend or a trusted mechanic. Take a test drive to identify the condition of the engine, the comfort of driving, and all other advantages and disadvantages within the used vehicle.

3. Evaluating service history
Check if the car has encountered an accident previously. Go for a thorough checking whether the defective and worn-out parts are replaced by the original owner or not. Some used car dealers offer certified used cars that may cost you a bit more, but reliable in case of purchasing.
Check whether the car was repossessed by a finance company. In that case, transferring car ownership may be difficult. If the car is repainted then you must try to find out the reason for the cosmetic damage. Avoid buying a modified car.
Check whether the previous owner has taken the vehicle to an authorized servicing centre and is serviced in every 4-6 months interval.

4. Proper checking of Documents
While buying a car from a private seller you need to collect the Registration Certificate. It is the most important document that contains the engine and chassis number. Then ask for a car purchasing invoice, though this is available only if you are purchasing from a company or car agents. For private sellers, ask for a receipt copy.
If you want to transfer an existing insurance policy on your name then the process is needed to start before the sale. You must check whether the previous premiums were paid regularly, the claim history of the seller, and the expiry date of the insurance policy. Gather a clear knowledge of the insurance policy including the terms and conditions, the exclusions, and the add-ons.
Forms 28, 29, 30, 32, and 35 are mandatory documents. Form 28 is the No Objection Certificate. Form 29 is the car ownership transfer notice while Form 30 is the intimation and car ownership transfer application. These two forms are given by the seller to the buyer. This then is needed to be submitted at RTO for car ownership transfer. If the seller has taken a car loan then he needs to provide forms 32 and 35.
The other important documents are receipt of road tax, certification of bi-fuel kits, Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and car owner's manual.

5. Make a proper negotiation
You can purchase unpopular cars as they are of great bargains in the second-hand car market. The car resale value is cheaper concerning the condition of the model.
No second-hand car is having a fixed price, so being a buyer you have the ball in your court. Intelligently negotiate the prices. For better help ask your car expert friend to join in the negotiation process. If you are purchasing from a car broker, then bargain on the brokerage fees which is usually 2% of the selling price of the car.

Conclusion
While purchasing a second-hand car you may contact Mahindra First Choice dealers in Mumbai for reliable car options. They even offer maintenance and services to your car post-purchasing.