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Buying a Secondhand Car or Bike

To ensure you are not buying someone else’s problem vehicle, consider the following:

• Make sure the vehicle has a clear title. A clear title means;

  • There are no outstanding payments to be made on the car;
  • The car hasn't ever been reported as being excessively damaged or stolen;
  • There are no liens attached to the vehicle;
  • That it can be sold/bought without any complications or approval from a third party.

 

The only way you would know if the car was mortgaged is to visit the Registrar General's office. There is a small fee to search in the book of mortgages to see whether the person purporting to be the owner had a mortgage on the car.

 

• Check the paperwork, service records and mileage of the vehicle. The numbers on the engine and chassis should match those on the paperwork;
• Check the quality of the paint work and interior trim.  Ensure the electrical switches and monitors are functioning.  Check the tire treads, as excessive wear can result in a loss of traction, especially on wet and slippery roads.  Make sure the spare wheel and tire are in good condition;
• Have a mechanic inspect the oil cap (which could indicate the need for a new head gasket), rubber hoses and belts for signs of wear and tear; 
• Test-drive the vehicle.  Start the vehicle when the engine is cold.  For a car, check that the engine is running smoothly and revs cleanly.  The brakes should stop the car without pulling to the left or right and should not grind.  The steering should be smooth and not rickety.  Listen for any strange noises;
• Check the bike frame by looking at it from the front.  If the frame is not in alignment it could be an indication of a previous accident.  The brakes on the bike should stop the bike smoothly and there should not be any screeching or grinding noise.

The Consumer Protection Act 1999 and the Sale of Goods Act 1978 (as amended 2002), have limited application to buying goods privately. If you do buy from a seller who was dishonest about the reason for selling the product, you may be entitled to a refund, however compensation will have to be decided by Magistrates’ Court.

FOR INFORMATION ON SELLING A CAR READ THE TCD GUIDE TO SELLING YOUR CAR.