Tips to Follow For Buying Second Hand Car

1. Tips to Buy A Second Hand Car in India

2. Thinking of buying second hand car? • Go Ahead….Follow the steps in the guide to ensure you have a safe and happy ride…..

3. Inspect the car and its papers • First step towards buying a car is getting it inspected thoroughly by a trust-worthy mechanic. • Check the car insurance papers of the owner to determine whether the car has been previously damaged or not. • Note the NCB applied. Higher the NCB, the better. • Check if the engine number and chassis no. match in the registration papers.

4. Get the filters (air, fuel, transmission, oil) checked and if possible get them changed. This will help you know the condition of the car and about its maintenance by the previous owner. • Check the brakes of the car. Drive the car to check for vibration or any noise coming from the brake pedal. If the brakes pulsate, then you will have to replace the rotors. • Check the condition of the tyres and see if they match and ensure you a smooth ride. • Check the hood of the car to notice any signs of dents, damage or rust.

5. Transfer of registration certificate (RC) • Fill out and submit form 29 and form 30 issued by the RTO jurisdiction you live in. • The form should be signed by you and the previous owner of the car. • If the car is registered in different RTO jurisdiction, then you will have to get an NOC from the RTO jurisdiction of the previous car owner. • You will receive the RC copy on your name in 40-45 days from the date of submission.

6. On transfer of the RC, also make sure that the following formalities are done. • Get the car insurance policy transferred in your name. You can opt to buy a new policy too. • Check form 32 and 35 to ensure that there are no pending loans on the car you are buying. • Ensure that you get the original invoice of the car, if you’re buying the second hand car on loan. Also get an NOC copy from the car finance company.

7. Bi-fuel certification if the car is CNG/LPG fitted needs to be checked. • Valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate. • Get the car insurance in your name. • If the RC is registered in your name and the insurance papers are still in the name of the previous owner, then the company won’t provide you any coverage.

8. If the previous owner has car insurance • New copy of the registration certificate/form 29. • Old policy document. • No Objection Clause (NOC) from the previous policy holder. • New application form. • Inspection Report (to be carried out by the insurance company). • No Claims Bonus difference amount.

9. If the previous owner does not have car insurance • It is mandatory to have a car insurance policy, if the RC has been transferred in the name of the new owner of the second hand car. • To buy a new car insurance policy, you will have to contact the insurance company and a new policy will be issued to you after a quick inspection of the vehicle. • If you want to buy a new policy, then follow the same process.

10. Transfer of No Claim Bonus • While transferring car insurance from previous owner of the vehicle to the new owner, NCB cannot be transferred. • If you’ve had a car in the past and have a no claim bonus discount applicable then you can ask your insurer to provide you an NCB retention letter which you can use for availing discount on the premium of your second hand car. • Remember: NCB retention letter can be obtained anytime between 90 days from the date of policy expiry and it is valid for 3 years.

11. Few things to do before you start driving • Get a thorough cleaning of the car done. • Change the fluids of the car. • Fix the tiny dents, lights, spark plugs and more. • Recommended Read: Top 5 Things To Check Before Buying A Used Car in India