Buying a used car

Alltagab 9 J.

How to buy a used car without nasty surprises: set a budget, check the vehicle history, take a test drive, get an inspection (e.g. ADAC check). And why paying cash is almost always better than financing.

Checklist for buying a used car (Germany):

Before buying:

• Set a budget (factor in purchase price + insurance + tax + maintenance)
• Research online: mobile.de, AutoScout24, eBay Kleinanzeigen
• Check the vehicle history: accident-free, previous owners, roadworthiness (TÜV) reports
• Check the market value: DAT or Schwacke list

At the viewing:

• Daylight, dry weather (damage is easier to see)
• Start the engine cold (starting problems can't be seen with a warm engine)
• Test drive: at least 30 minutes, motorway + town
• ADAC used car check: from €89 – worthwhile for cars over €5,000

Financing: paying cash is almost always better than financing. If you need a loan: a bank car loan (3–5%) instead of dealer financing (often 5–9%). And: leasing is almost never worthwhile for private individuals.

Did you know? A new car loses about 25% of its value in the first year. A 3-year-old used car often costs only 50–60% of the new price – but is technically almost as good.

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