The second hand used car industry is rapidly growing in India and has got a boost in the last five years. The used car market is evolving and gradually going to give stiff competition to the new car market. In today’s generation, people prefer to purchase a second hand vehicle, which could save some money without compromising their needs and requirements. The used car industry is now completely transparent, and one can easily trust the certified dealers. But still, many people are not sure of purchasing a used car. Therefore the customers have the opportunity to assess the second hand car before buying. This whole process is called Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI). It is a very beneficial process before buying a vehicle and can help clear all the doubts about the old car.
What is Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI)
In the pre-purchase inspection of a second hand used car, a certified and qualified mechanic or a technician assesses the car. The examination is very crucial before buying the old vehicle to unfold its mechanical, cosmetic, and other crucial details. The complete thorough inspection gives details of all the history of the vehicle. Whether it has been repaired in the past, any part replacement is done, body dents, etc. The pre-purchase inspection also justifies that for how long the car will work smoothly, how much extra money needs to be spent after the purchase, and many other essential details.
Where should I get a PPI
You must ask the owner of the car to take it for the pre-purchase inspection to a certified mechanic. Always try to go to a third party qualified mechanic for the full assessment of the used car. Nowadays, there are many certified and trusted mechanic shops only for the purpose of the pre-purchase inspection. They provide proper documentation after the examination of the second hand car. To make your task easier, the Automobile Protection Agency (APA) has put up a form on its official website. You can download that form and take it to the person performing the inspection of the used car.
What all is checked during a Pre-Purchase Inspection
A detailed inspection of the used car consists of more than 200 checkpoints. The mechanic must inspect all the electrical, mechanical, and other smaller components inside the vehicle. The electrical components include the battery, starter motor, ignition, spark plug, lamps, etc. The engine is the heart of any vehicle. Hence the mechanic must inspect the engine carefully. Other mechanical parts include the transmission, suspension, brakes, and wheels. Other crucial examinations include speedometer, odometer, AC, infotainment, and other features inside the car. You must also check the body paint, dents, any accidental history, history of replaced parts, and much more. A thorough check-up of the used car will clear all your doubts regarding it.
Who must pay the bills?
‘In most of the cases, the person who is going to purchase the second hand car and is demanding a PPI pays the bill. It is very specific to the dealerships, or it depends upon whom you are buying your car. Both the seller and the buyer must decide about the same before finalizing the deal. In some cases, the PPI cost is included with the total amount of the used car to be paid.
Now, if you are satisfied with the inspection, ask for proper documents related to the pre-purchase inspection. Now, it is your call whether to buy that second hand used car or not.