Buying a used car is, first of all, a good dose of stress, then time spent without ever knowing too much, after the purchase, whether you have opted for the right vehicle, at the best price … Discover our practical advice to become a real expert in car negotiation, and avoid scams or slippers when buying your next used vehicle.
Avoid scams
It is the same with the purchase of a vehicle as property; beware of too good deals that could hide the opposite: a damaged car or even a stolen vehicle. You should also know, as the National Institute of Consumption (INC) reminds us, that in the event of purchase from an individual, only the guarantee against hidden defects is likely to apply.
Find out about the vehicle’s history
An informed buyer is worth two: start by educating yourself well. To do this, do not hesitate to ask the seller. Ask him for the exact references of his vehicle, then ask him about its general condition, its equipment … Also, ask for the day of the appointment to be able to consult the vehicle’s maintenance book – it is imperative! – as well as all the related invoices.
Find out about market prices
Study the market value of the vehicle you wish to acquire. Also take into account the prices of similar vehicles found in your area. An indicative price to be adjusted according to your observations during the appointment, of course.
Set a ceiling price
With all the information gathered, set a ceiling price that should not be exceeded. A price that you will determine, taking into account your financial situation or your borrowing capacity: on this last point, you can seek an advisor to make an estimate. Our online tool allows you to calculate your monthly payments.
Examination of the car: an essential step
Make an appointment with the seller, preferably during the day, to carry out a scrupulous inspection under the best conditions. Inspect every inch, inside and outside, of the car. Also remember to try all the equipment: sunroof, air conditioning, etc. Pay particular attention to critical points such as the engine, tires, bodywork. Note scratches, scratches, corrosion spots. So many possible negotiating arguments.
Do not hesitate to be accompanied by a trusted person, a friend, or an approved automotive expert, to secure your purchase.
What the seller should give you
For sale to be truly concluded, the seller must give you certain documents :
the certificate of the administrative situation of less than 15 days, it makes it possible to verify that there is no opposition to the sale. It will also be accessible via the Histovec site when the seller has given you access to the report concerning his vehicle. You will then have access to the administrative situation of the vehicle, the certificate of non-pledge, the number of previous owners …
If the vehicle is more than 4 years old, the seller must provide you with the technical inspection, dating from less than 6 months (or less than two months if a follow-up has been prescribed).
The registration certificate, or its detachable coupon, crossed out with the words “sold + the date”, and signed by the seller, must be given to you.
The transfer certificate which must be completed in duplicate, one being for you. In addition, a declaration of assignment must be completed online by the seller (advise him to be vigilant when transcribing the information because any error would delay the administrative procedure).
Negotiate the price of the car downwards with the private individual
Ready to make an offer? Some practical tips for good negotiation: show the salesperson that you have other cars insight, that you are thorough, then put forward your various remarks one by one. You will thus observe the seller’s reaction until you eventually find the right argument! And, never forget above all that it is you, the purchaser, who is in a position of strength. No one is in effect forcing you to buy that particular vehicle over another.
Test the private car’s car before negotiating
No question of buying a used car without having tried it! Listen for the slightest suspicious noise. Also pay special attention to the gearbox and handling. Take the opportunity to ask the seller what drives him to part with his vehicle: if, for example, he has to sell quickly, he will undoubtedly be more inclined to negotiate.
If you are looking to rent a car in Islamabad, you can hire the services of Carlay Car Rental. It is a well-known Car Rental firm.
Digitac 