What to look for when buying a second hand car in Pune

Finding the perfect deal on used cars in Pune can be a challenge considering the sheer volume of choice available. As a buyer, this also presents an opportunity for smart shopping by identifying your priorities and pursuing cars that tick the right boxes for you. 

And, in case you’re planning on trading in your existing car and use the proceeds to fund the purchase of your next car in Pune, it might be a good idea to understand what your car is worth. Most people planning to sell their car begin by checking market trends, browsing prices of similar models online, or using a reliable used car valuation tool to get a fair estimate. 

With the number of second hand cars in Pune growing larger every year, the right car for you is just a few steps away. This guide will help you identify what you need to be looking out for when buying a used car in the cultural capital of Maharashtra. 

What Types of Used Cars Are Best Suited to Driving in Pune?

Car buyers in Pune favour certain types of cars over others, with a clear preference when it comes to used cars. While the city has expanded in terms of population and traffic density, not all of the city’s road infrastructure has kept up. This makes compact and easy to manoeuvre cars the best choice to deal with daily commutes. Hatchbacks and budget sedans are at the top of the list due to Pune’s congested traffic conditions. Buyers also tend to gravitate to these types of cars due to their value for money appeal, along with the promise of low maintenance costs. 

Essential Inspections When Buying a Second Hand Car in Pune 

When buying second hand cars in Pune, there are a few things to keep in mind specific to the region. While the used car inspection checklist is largely similar irrespective of location, the weather and usage patterns of cars in Pune demand a few extra checks. 

Given the large amount of rainfall that the area receives, it becomes more important to check used cars for rust and other water damage. A thorough inspection inside and out is the best way to ensure you get a quality second hand car. 

Exterior Checks 

• Watch out for water damage: Focus on areas where water accumulation occurs in second hand cars in Pune. Examine the underbody, door seals and electrical connections for signs of water damage
• Inspect paint finish: Differences in paint quality or colour can indicate accident damage or shoddy bodywork repairs, a regular occurrence in Pune’s notorious traffic
• Functioning lights: Check the headlights, taillights, and indicators for proper functionality. Electrical repairs on used cars can be expensive and time-consuming
• Inspect the tires: Check for tread depth and age of tyres to avoid unexpected expenses
• Inspect the engine bay: Look for oil leaks, corrosion, unusual wear or missing components

Interior Checks 

• Check the interiors for wear: Excessive wear on seats and interior touch points can reveal misuse or if the odometer has been tampered with 
• Look for leaks: Signs of water leakage into the cabin of used cars may be hiding under carpets and in hard-to-reach areas, pay special attention here
• Test all electrical systems: Check functionality of air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, central locking and the infotainment system for smartphone integration and microphone audibility 

Test Drive Checks

• Request for a cold start: Some issues with used cars are only apparent during cold starts so request for the engine to not be warmed up prior to your arrival
• Listen for unusual sounds from the engine: Knocking, irregular idling, or excessive noise could mean expensive repairs in the future 
• Pay special attention during the test drive: Drive how you normally would when inspecting second hand cars in Pune to get the most accurate representation of living with your purchase. Note whether gears slot properly, if the clutch releases correctly, if the steering feels precise and whether the brakes provide adequate stopping power

Documentation

• Ask for service records: While some second hand cars in Pune will have authorised service records for the life of the vehicle, any record of maintenance even from third-party service centres is better than nothing
• Inspect the documents: Ensure chassis and engine numbers of used cars match the RC details, check for running insurance and any outstanding challans

Tips To Getting The Best Deals on Used Cars 

It may not always be apparent but timing also plays a crucial role when purchasing used cars. The festive season is a great time for car manufacturers with new car sales peaking. With people upgrading their cars, the other side of the coin is the extra inventory of second hand cars in Pune to choose from. Use this time of excess supply along with typical negotiation tactics of pointing out flaws with the car to negotiate favourable deals. 

Conclusion

Success in Pune’s used cars market comes from a clear understanding of market dynamics and your own requirements. Keeping in mind the seasonal effect where supply exceeds demand and armed with the right knowledge, you as a buyer can make a fully informed decision. Whether it’s a city car for daily commutes, or a family car for exploring Maharashtra’s scenic destinations, there’s a wealth of choice of second hand cars in Pune to choose from.