What To Look For When Inspecting A Used Car In Pune?

If you are currently reading this article, there is a high chance that you have probably narrowed down your research for pre-owned cars and might be finalizing one. 

However, if you are in the initial stage, you might want to know how to research a used car and also the advantages & disadvantages of pre-owned vehicles.  

A pre-purchase inspection is vital before buying used cars in Pune. A thorough functioning and exterior inspection is required to judge its credibility. Do it yourself or hire an experienced mechanic for better evaluation. 

Pre-purchase inspection helps you ascertain whether the car you are buying satisfies your needs and works efficiently.  To be honest, nobody wants to pay hefty charges for repairs and maintenance. 

There are online portals to buy used cars; you can check used cars in Pune on CARS24. They will help you find the car that suits your budget as well as your needs. Plus, you get plenty of options to compare with.

“A comprehensive car check leads to informed decisions and saves both time & money. “

Things you must carry 

Before leaving for an inspection, make sure you carry-

• Notepad and pen- If you are comfortable with a smartphone, use it to note down important details like mileage and vehicle identification numbers. 
• An app for pre-loved vehicles: This can be a true savior when you are stuck with car valuation. Cars24 can help you find value cars in your vicinity and also assist you in checking and comparing if you are getting a value deal.  
• A high-beam flashlight: This will help in checking the bottom of the vehicle and missing spots. 

Now,  let’s start the inspection! Check out this used car inspection checklist. 

The Checklist Of Solutions 

Check For Scratches And Paint Jobs

It’s always better to inspect used cars on a sunny day to make sure you don’t miss any corner of the exterior. Any inconsistency in the paint coat means that the vehicle has scratches and is re-painted. Make sure to check if the vehicle was involved in any major accidents and whether any part was damaged beyond repair and replaced.  Check the registration certificate for such details.  

Working Electronics Is A Must! 

Let’s start with the basic things, like the electrical system. Ensure that all electrical appliances comply with every command.  The music system, power windows, tail lamps, foldable mirrors and more must function properly. In our subcontinent, summers are extremely hot, so ensure the air conditioning suffices your sultry summer needs.  

Look For Leaks And Battery-Related Problems

Thoroughly check near the battery outlet to see if there’s any wear and tear. After a comprehensive check and test drive, park the car and wait for 20 minutes to look for leakages.  

Pay Heed To Any Noise While Driving 

At the beginning of the test drive, switch off the music system, open the windows, and carefully listen for any screeching noise coming from the vehicle. If yes, then it might be an issue with the suspension or any other part.  

Inspect The Engine 

A shrill knocking sound from the car is indicative of an issue with the engine. It should not misfire as well; you can detect it by loss of acceleration when pressing the pedals or noticing tremors on the dashboard. Also, if the car emits smoke, you might want to get a professional opinion. 

Examine The Level Of Engine Oil 

The engine is the heart of your car, and engine oil is the blood that powers the core. So, normal levels of engine oil are a must before a test drive. 

Tips to check engine oil level:-

• Make sure the car is not running and is cold. 
• Take out the transmission dipstick that is inserted on the engine’s side mounting 

You will see two markings on the dipstick. The ideal level of engine oil is the second-highest marking. Oil up to the highest markings means full, and the oil must look as transparent as possible. For deep analysis, you can even rub the oil on your thumb. If you come across a grayish residue that indicates the vehicle may need an oil change.  

Check The Braking System 

Behind the wheel, your life depends on brakes, and you must ensure that they are in good condition. Don’t be shy about pulling up the brakes aggressively during a test drive. Check the braking pedal for visible wear and tear as well. 

Closely Inspect The Tyres

Make sure that the tyres are in good shape with sufficient tread depth. If the rubber is brittle, try to negotiate a lower price. All 5 tires (4+1 spare) must be of the same brand, so if they are worn out and replaced at the same time. If you come across multi-brand tyres, ask the seller for a reason behind it. The average lifespan of a set of tyres can be around 30,000 to 40,000 km and can vary as per driving conditions.

Keep A Vigilant Eye On The Odometer 

Examine odometer reading carefully, as rollbacks are a common way to add value to a car. If readings do not tally with the details, it means the odometer is tampered and you might want to seek a professional opinion on the car.  

Car’s Maintenance History To Avoid Damage Mystery 

Ask the owner for details on any repairs made on the vehicle. Don’t forget to ask for the car’s service book, as it withholds a comprehensive overview of the vehicle’s maintenance history. 

Check Seat Condition

Before you get comfortable behind the wheel, it’s important to examine the seats. Take notes of every stain, hole, scratch, and defect on the seat, and also share the same with the owner. Constantly recline and retract the seat to check its movability. After you take a seat, examine the cushioning and under-thigh pads too. 

Inspect The Floor For Rust 

Examine the floor thoroughly. Once over, get rid of the floor mats and check for rust or any additional damage to the floor. Go down to the floor and check every possible corner for any dents, cracks or smell. If you notice a foul smell along with dents, it can be indicative of flood, accidents or heavy rainfall. Share this with the seller and request an explanation. Meanwhile, check with a mechanic for a professional opinion.

Legal Documents 

To complete the legal transaction of the car to your name, make sure these documents are transferred to your name:-

• RC

It is necessary to transfer the original registration certificate to your name. This is the legal proof that the car belongs to you.  

• Vehicle insurance papers

To claim the insurance in case of any accident, it must be transferred to you. To ensure a smooth RC transfer, make sure the insurance is valid for another one month.  

• NOC

Ask for no objection certificate or the Loan repayment and foreclosure statement stating the car’s loan has been paid off. 

• Original invoice

The original invoice of the purchase is another important document you must have in your possession.

The Bottom Line 

If any used car passes all the necessary criteria, Congratulations! You have found the one. 

Remember the mantra: first, check the car like a pro, and then give it a go. If you are a first-timer, it is better to get opinions from a professional mechanic.