5 Things to Checks When Buying a Used Car (Complete 2025 Guide)

The used car market offers incredible value, letting you upgrade to premium models at half their original price. But how do you avoid buying a lemon? Here’s a step-by-step guide to inspecting a used car like a pro.

1. Where to Buy? Certified vs Private Sellers

Option A: Certified Used Car Dealers

✅ Pros:

• Professionally refurbished cars
• Warranty & after-sales support
• Hassle-free paperwork & financing
• Showroom experience

❌ Cons:

• Priced 10-20% higher than market
• Hidden refurbishment costs

Option B: Private Sellers (DIY Route)

✅ Pros:

• Better price negotiation
• Direct interaction with owner

❌ Cons:

• Risk of fraud/scams
• No warranty

Pro Tip:
✔ Always verify ownership via Vahan portal
✔ Check for pending loans/hypothecation
✔ Avoid cars with expired insurance

2. Bodywork Inspection – Spotting Accident Repairs

🚗 What to Check?

• Paint Quality: Faded OEM paint > fresh aftermarket paint (could hide crashes)
• Panel Gaps: Misaligned doors/bonnet = accident damage
• Magnet Test: Stick a magnet – if it doesn’t stick, body filler (putty) is present
• Lights & Badges: New headlights/taillights? Could mean collision repairs

🔍 Red Flags:
✖ Overspray on edges
✖ Missing badges/emblems
✖ Uneven body lines

3. Interior Check – Signs of Wear & Abuse

🛋️ What to Look For?

• Steering & Pedals: Heavy wear = high mileage
• Seats & Upholstery: Remove seat covers to check tears/stains
• Dashboard: Fading = long sun exposure
• Electronics: Test all switches, AC, infotainment
• Boot Area: Check for spare tyre, tools, rust

⚠️ Warning Signs:
✖ Aftermarket wiring (poor electrical mods)
✖ Musty smell (water leakage)

4. Mechanical Inspection – Engine & Underbody

🔧 Critical Checks:

• Engine Bay: Look for oil leaks, rust, cracked hoses
• Tyres: New tyres on a “low-mileage” car? Odometer may be tampered
• Fluids: Oil (black = old), Coolant (discolored = neglect)
• Suspension: Push down on each corner – if it bounces > shocks are worn

🚨 Walk Away If:
✖ Engine smokes excessively
✖ Unusual knocking/rattling noises

5. Test Drive – Must-Do Checks

🚘 During the Drive:

• Cold Start: Rough cranking = battery/engine issues
• Clutch: Slipping? (Rev rises but car doesn’t accelerate)
• Brakes: Squeaking = worn pads
• Alignment: Steering pulls to one side?
• Suspension: Listen for clunks over bumps

💡 Pro Tip:
✔ Test AC cooling efficiency
✔ Drive on different road types (highway, bumps)

Best Used Cars Under ₹7 Lakh (2024)

Why Used?

• Get a higher segment car (SUV/sedan) for hatchback money
• Lower depreciation

Final Verdict: Smart Buying Tips

✔ Always get a mechanic’s inspection before purchase
✔ Run a VIN check for accident history
✔ Prefer single-owner cars with service records

Found a car? Ask us in comments – we’ll help you decide.