Buying a Vehicle? Don’t Ignore These Legal & Mechanical Requirements

Legal Points to Check Before Buying a Vehicle

1. Registration Certificate - Make sure the vehicle’s chassis number, engine number, and registration number match. - Confirm the owner’s name is correct. - If buying from a company or showroom, verify that the seller has the legal right to sell it.

2. Loan / Hypothecation - Many vehicles are bought on bank or finance loans. - If the RC shows HP (Hypothecation), get a clearance letter from the bank. - A No Objection Certificate (NOC) is required. - Until the loan is fully cleared, the vehicle cannot be legally transferred.

3. Tax, Insurance & Pollution Certificate - Check if road tax is fully paid. - Insurance must be valid and transferable to the new owner. - A PUC certificate is required.

4. Accident or Theft History - Check police and insurance records to confirm there are no theft or accident cases. - If it had an accident, verify that the insurance claim was fully processed.

5. Ownership Transfer Process - Prepare a sale agreement or delivery note. - Submit the transfer form at the transport office. - Pay transfer fees or taxes. - Get a new RC in the buyer’s name. - Transfer the insurance to the new owner. - Until transfer is complete, the previous owner remains legally responsible.

6. Other Legal Points - If the vehicle was used as a taxi or commercial vehicle, confirm its conversion to private use. - Imported vehicles need customs clearance documents. - Always take a receipt or tax invoice.

Mechanical Checklist When Buying a Vehicle

1. Engine - Check if the vehicle starts immediately. - Look for oil leaks. - Ensure exhaust smoke is normal (blue/black smoke indicates problems). - Listen for unusual sounds.

2. Gearbox & Clutch - Check if gears shift smoothly. - Ensure the clutch isn’t too light or slipping. - Make sure gears don’t get stuck while driving.

3. Suspension & Steering - Check for noises on bumps. - Make sure the steering doesn’t pull to one side. - Look for shock absorber leaks.

4. Brakes - Confirm the vehicle stops quickly. - Make sure it doesn’t pull to one side when braking. - Ensure the brake pedal doesn’t go too low. - For ABS vehicles, confirm the ABS light works properly.

5. Battery & Electricals - Check battery strength. - Ensure all lights, indicators, horn, and wipers work. - Confirm the AC/heater works.

6. Tyres & Wheels - Check tyre grip. - Ensure all tyres are the same size and in similar condition. - Confirm the wheel alignment is fine.

7. Cooling System - Look for radiator or coolant leaks. - Make sure the vehicle doesn’t overheat.

8. Test Drive - Listen for noises or vibration at different speeds. - Check stability at highway speed. - Make sure brakes, gears, and clutch work normally.