CONNECTOR.AE 44 CONNECTOR.AE 45 LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE 6. Leaks And Fluid Stains Before and after driving, inspect under the car for oil, coolant, brake fluid, or transmission fluid leaks. Even small stains could indicate significant problems with the engine or other systems. 7. Odometer Reading And Car Age Compare the car’s mileage to its manufacturing year. Very high mileage on a newer car might suggest commercial or rental use. Conversely, very low mileage should be backed by full service records to rule out odometer tampering. 8. Maintenance Records Ask for documented service history. A wellmaintained car will have records of regular oil changes, brake checks, filter replacements and more. Gaps or missing records may hint at poor upkeep, which could lead to costly repairs down the line. 3. Signs Of Structural Or Cosmetic Damage Carefully inspect the vehicle’s body for dents, scratches, rust, or uneven panel gaps. These can indicate past collisions or substandard repairs. Also, check for repainted areas. Mismatched or uneven paint might be concealing deeper structural issues. 4. Airbag Status Check that all airbags are present and have not been previously deployed without proper replacement. A missing or inactive airbag seriously compromises safety and may be costly to fix. 5. Listen For Unusual Noises During a test drive, pay attention to the sound and feel of the vehicle. Knocking, rattling, or vibration from the engine, brakes or suspension could point to mechanical issues that need inspection or repair. that the car has been properly maintained and gives you a better idea of what work may be needed in the future. Importantly, try your best to purchase a used car directly from its first owner. Not only does this often guarantee better vehicle care, but it also reduces the chances of hidden ownership transfers or usage as a rental vehicle. Trusted platforms, reputable dealerships, and word-of-mouth referrals are good starting points. Avoid private sellers who can’t offer documentation, and steer clear of deals that seem too good to be true. Buying a used car in Dubai isn’t just about finding a good deal, it’s about knowing what to look for and what to avoid. From unauthorised dealers to misleading ownership claims and hidden warranties, there are several red flags that can turn your dream car into a costly mistake. However, with expert-backed tips like these, you can walk into your next purchase with confidence and clarity. Take the time to inspect every detail, request reports, and ask the right questions. A little diligence now can save you from major regrets down the road. And remember, in a city like Dubai, where the roads are filled with everything from compact city cars to luxury SUVs, there’s always a good used car waiting. You just need to know how to find it and take your time in ensuring you get the best deal. 9. Warranty Terms And Hidden Costs Used cars often come with existing warranties, but it’s important to understand the terms. Will the warranty transfer to you? Are there fees for extending it? What’s actually covered or excluded? Always confirm these details with the showroom and get them in writing. 10. RTA Comprehensive Test As your final step, take the vehicle for a full inspection at an RTA-approved testing centre. This test gives a detailed, unbiased assessment of the car’s condition, covering accident history, chassis integrity, repainting, oil or fluid leaks, mileage accuracy, engine and gear replacements, and more. It’s the most reliable way to validate all your earlier checks, and no used car purchase should be finalised without it. Where To Buy And Whom To Trust Knowing where to shop is just as important as knowing what to look for. Prioritising transparency and traceability in your purchase is always recommended. It is best to buy a car with full service history if you are spending more than Dhs 80,000. This ensures
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MzU4NjA=