Warning Signs to Avoid When Buying A Secondhand Car

Purchasing a secondhand car is a great way to get a set of wheels but at a low price. It saves you from the great depreciation that is typically incurred by buying a brand-new car.

However, while buying a secondhand car in Singapore offers a lot of benefits, the process entails a major drawback which is the difficulty in finding a car that’s in great shape and hasn’t been hiding serious, hidden mechanical issues.

After all, your goal is to find a decently performing car that not only fits within your budget but one that will last you for years to come. But, how would you know if a secondhand car isn’t worth buying? In this article, we’ll walk you through the top warning signs you need to look for when buying an old car.

Price is too good to be true

The mother of all red flags, if the price of a used car is unbelievably low, then there’s a high possibility that you’re dealing with a scammer. In order to avoid this, look for the average price range of the used car you’re considering to buy and see how the offered price fairs. Keep in mind that a cheap price doesn’t equate with a great bargain.

Heavily worn tyres

Aside from the price, when you are planning to buy a 2^nd hand car here in Singapore, it’s advisable to also check the tyres. A simple inspection the car tyres can already give you an insight into the overall condition of the vehicle. Ideally, you prefer all of the tyres to be the same brand and model and they should all be equally worn. However, if the tyres are unevenly worn, it could be a sign that there are suspension and brake issues. Likewise, mismatched tyres should also be a red flag.

Poor paint jobs

Although society tells you can’t judge a book by its cover, you basically can’t apply it to used cars. When a vehicle is properly maintained, it should look good as new even if it’s actually 5 years old or more. It’s the reason why poor paint jobs can be a sign of neglect because it could either be an indication that the dealer is covering up rust spots or the vehicle has been hastily repainted following an accident. Either way, you should avoid vehicles as such.

Lack of repair records

Although it’s understandable that a seller doesn’t have detailed records of all the services and repairs a car has received, the dealer should at least be able to provide you with brief information about the vehicle’s overall state of repair. Otherwise, he may be hiding something he didn’t want you to know. Your best bet would be is to hire a third-party mechanic to check on the car’s overall condition.

The title is not available

On top of all these, if you’re eyeing a vehicle and the dealer can’t provide you with the title, walk away. Even if it’s the owner of the car you’re dealing with, a lost title may indicate carelessness, which should reflect poorly on the vehicle - and honestly speaking, it’s rare to meet a car owner who has lost the title.

Buying a secondhand car, as it seems, is often more difficult than buying a brand new. But, knowing these tips can help successfully see you through the process.