Used Car Checklist

Checklist for Buying a Used Car: Most people who do not have that much budget and want to buy a car often think of buying a second-hand car, but if you have decided to buy a second-hand car, then there is some basic information for you, keeping in mind which you should buy so that you do not suffer any loss. In this blog, we are going to give you a complete checklist which will help you in taking a safe and smart decision.

1. Understand the purpose of the car

If you are thinking of purchasing a car, first of all, decide for what purpose you are buying the car, like daily commute, family trip or long drive. Understanding the purpose makes it easier for you to fix the model and segment. Below are some suggestions which will be helpful for you.

For city use: Compact cars like Swift, i20, WagonR
For highway drives: Sedan or SUV like Creta or XUV300
Mileage-oriented: Consider Diesel or CNG options

2. Check Documents

Whenever you go to buy a car, do check its documents; otherwise, you may face legal trouble. Do check these papers:

RC (Registration Certificate): Owner name and engine/chassis no. match.
Insurance: It should be active. Renewal of lapsed insurance is expensive.
PUC (Pollution Certificate): It should be valid.
Road Tax Receipt
Service History: It is best if it is from an authorised service centre.
Loan NOC (if applicable): If there was a loan earlier, it is necessary to take NOC.
Form 35: Document to be updated in RTO after loan closure

3. Check the car’s odometer fraud

Odometer fraud is common in India. People here sell their cars by showing 40,000 km on their odometer, which actually has run 90,000 km. That’s why you have to pay attention to a few things.

Match the service records with the odometer reading
Check the condition of the accelerator pedal, clutch and brake pads
A worn steering or gear knob also gives a hint

4. Inspect the car with a mechanic

Getting the car thoroughly inspected by a reliable mechanic is a sign of a smart buyer. Be sure to check a few things.

Is there any extra noise or smoke from the engine?
Is there any oil leakage?
Is the suspension good, or does it make noise on every bump?
Are the condition and wear of the tyres equal?
If the battery is old, then the replacement cost may apply

Pro Tip: If the seller allows, be sure to take a short test drive.

5. Find out the accident history

Sometimes the car gets into a major accident, and the owner gets it repaired and sells it. You have to pay a lot of attention to this too.

Check the car’s insurance claim history.
Check for paint inconsistency or uneven gaps
Are the bonnet, doors, and dickey properly aligned or not

6. Check market price

The value of a used car depends on different parameters.

Age of Car
Variant & fuel type
Running (KM driven)
Accidental status
Location
Estimate the fair price by using online tools like OLX, Cars24, and Car Dekho.

Also check:

Engine health
Features (ABS, airbags, infotainment, etc.)
Tire replacement cost
RC transfer cost (Approx. ₹1500–₹2500)

7. RC Transfer & Legal Formalities

The car should be transferred in your name only; then you will become the legal owner. These documents are required for RC transfer.

Form 29 & 30 (buyer & seller both sign)
ID proof + address proof
NOC (if car from different RTO region)
Insurance + PUC
It may take 20-30 days for transfer in RTO, but your work should be completed with the seller.

8. Warranty & Buy-Back Option (If Buying From Dealer)

If you are buying a used car from a dealer or platform like Spinny, Cars24, Truebil, then you should take some information like-

How many months of warranty is available?
Is there a buyback or return policy available or not?
Are there any hidden charges?

Certified used cars are a bit expensive, but you get peace of mind.

9. Use Online Verification Tools (2025 Update)

Now you can check the background of the car using some apps and portals:

mParivahan App: To check RC and insurance status
CarInfo App: To check Owner, loan status, challans
Droom History: Accident, service, and theft record (premium feature)

Checklist for Buying a Used Car

Buying a used car can be a smart decision if you have checked everything properly. Always take the help of a mechanic, verify documents and complete legal formalities.

Checklist for Buying a Used Car-2025 Updated Guide