Documents to Check When Buying a Used Car

Be it a brand-new vehicle or a used vehicle, precise documentation is one of the most critical considerations. You might not have access to these documents readily while buying a second-hand car.

In any case, you must check these essential documents before buying a new/used car.

Registration Certificate

The RC book is the identity proof of the owner and the car. If the info on the vehicle matches the details on the RC, you have nothing to worry. Please do note that when it comes to buying a used car, there have been cases of owners forging their RC book. So, do verify ownership details and authenticity.

Photo Credit: unsplash.com

Car Purchase Documents

The car purchase documents include an invoice. This invoice will give you insights into the car purchase date and car specs. With this document in hand, you can spot any discrepancies. Also, the invoice is a piece of paper that proves the ownership. Refrain from buying a used car that doesn't hold genuine car purchase documents. 

Insurance

You might be aware that insurance is mandatory for all vehicles. You should verify the insurance to check if the owner has made any prior claims. This piece of document will tell you if the car has been involved in any accidents.

Service Book

A service book or a blue book is a historical record or car servicing. This record-keeping book will provide you with information about the maintenance and servicing of the car. You can look into the meter readings to analyze the vehicle's status. Check the recent repairs noted in the book before jumping to any decisions.

Photo Credit: unsplash.com

Road Tax Receipt

The first owner pays the road tax receipt during the vehicle purchase. It is a one-time tax that the used car buyer doesn't have to re-pay. Check that the receipt of this amount is clear; otherwise, you'll have to bear it.

No Objection Certificate

It is no secret that the majority of the owners purchase cars on loans issued by the bank. So, it is necessary that you ask for a NOC issued by the relevant bank. The NOC is a document that mentions that the vehicle is free from any debts and loans. This document is mandatory for transfer of car registration certificate to your name. Moreover, if you purchase a used car with unpaid loans, the onus to pay the rest of the amount falls on you. So you need to factor that too before deciding on a price for the car.

Pollution Certificate

The PUC is one of the most essential documents today, especially if you are buying an older used car. The pollution certificate is a measure of the vehicle's emission levels. Do you know that driving a car without PUC can end you up in trouble? If the used car doesn't qualify for a PUC, it talks about the poor condition of the engine.

Photo Credit: unsplash.com

Make sure that the details match all documents, including the RC. Once you verify these documents, you can purchase a used car without worries.