Your Guide To Buying A Used Car

Posted by Land Rover India on October 16th, 2018

Every person, either has already, or is likely to give buying a second-hand car a thought. But more often than not, there’s a lack of knowledge and check-points that should be observed before stepping into the market. And especially if it’s about a luxury SUV in India. 

Usually, family cars or specifically put, luxury SUVs in India, are always hot on the market. And one such vehicle that fits this space perfectly, is the Range Rover Velar price in India starting at Rs. 83.34 Lakh (Ex-Showroom Price). And if you’re looking at 7 Seater SUV in India, you can look at the Land Rover Discovery and the Discovery Sport too. Both these offer 5+2 seating options. 

And buying a second-hand car is always a tough decision and there are a lot of other factors that need to be considered apart from maintenance and basic signs of degradation before finalising your decision. 

When you’ve zeroed in on your pick, or shortlisted a few, you’re definitely going to have a test drive. Here’s what you should keep in check at that time; 

All Electrical Components, All Well

You can start by checking in on how the AC in the car functions. Specifically, when climbing a slope, keep an eye on how much time it takes to cool the interiors. 

Engine oil cap

Engine oil caps often go unnoticed when it comes to minor complications. It is always advisable to open the engine oil cap and have a look inside for oil sludge. And if there’s a thick black build-up on internal parts, getting it replaced is your way out of that. 

Battered Up Battery?

One of the most essential checks you have to perform. The battery is often the most vulnerable part when it comes to a used car. Always check for acid wear and tear around the battery. 

Leaky Bits

Right after the test drive, there’s a tiny hack that goes a long way. Try parking the car on a clean spot, and at least 30 minutes later, check that there are no oil leaks from the engine or gearbox.

Engine Checks

Whether a used or a new car, the engine should always purr, and not stutter especially while changing gears. 

Brakes

While you’re driving around in the car, try getting to a stop and apply the brakes at an approximate speed of 30-50 km to check that the car stops in a straight line. And try driving up a slope to check the handbrake works properly too. 

Tyre

Tyre alignment is another important check-point to have done. If tyres are not in a good condition, there is a chance of a bargain right there. 

Paint

Obviously, the most noticeable part, is the entire body. But a lot of times, small scratches, bruises to the paint job go un-noticed. Make sure you don’t let that happen. Any irregularities in the paint work and it could mean that the car might have been in an accident. 

Documents to check

Here’s a list of documents that you need to ensure are in place, and mainly up-to-date: 

• Registration papers
• Insurance papers
• NOC (no-objection certificate) 

Now that you have your checklist of things to do, before buying a used car, you can breathe easy and go more prepared than ever.