Second-Hand Car Checklist: What to Check Before You Buy

Buying a used car can be smart—if you inspect it carefully and confirm the paperwork. Many people only look at the engine and visible dents, then discover hidden hassles later. One easily missed item in India is the FASTag tied to the car’s registration number: if the previous owner hasn’t deactivated it, you could face toll disputes or balance issues.

This guide turns that short warning into a complete, practical checklist so you can review the vehicle confidently and avoid post-purchase headaches.

1) Quick Reality Check: Don’t Stop at Engine and Dents

Visual damage and a rough-running motor are obvious red flags, but they’re not the whole picture. Go deeper:

  • Test drive at city and highway speeds; listen for knocking, humming, or whining from the engine, wheel bearings, and gearbox.
  • Check panel gaps and overspray that suggest accident repairs.
  • Look underneath for fluid leaks (engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid).
  • Scan tires for uneven wear, a sign of poor alignment or suspension issues.
  • Inspect brake rotors and pads for scoring; confirm the ABS warning light turns off after startup.

2) Documents and Identity: Paperwork Must Match the Plate

Paperwork issues can cost time and money. Verify:

  • RC (Registration Certificate) details match the VIN/chassis, engine number, and license plate.
  • Owner identity on the RC matches the seller’s ID; verify address.
  • Insurance (active policy) with no outstanding claims; confirm IDV and policy expiry.
  • PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificate is current.
  • Service history: request stamped invoices; look for regular oil, filters, and brake service.
  • If the car was financed, ensure hypothecation removal and NOC from the bank are available before you proceed.

3) Critical but Overlooked: FASTag Deactivation & Transfer

Your script highlighted an often ignored risk: the FASTag linked to the car’s registration number. Before payment:

  1. Ask the seller to log in to their FASTag account (or contact the issuer bank/app) and close/deactivate the tag for that vehicle.
  2. Request written confirmation (email/SMS/statement) that the FASTag is closed or delinked from the number plate.
  3. If you plan to keep a FASTag, apply for a fresh tag in your name only after the old one is deactivated.
  4. At delivery, physically remove any old tag from the windshield to prevent accidental scans.
  5. Keep a record (screenshot or invoice) of your new FASTag activation in your name.

Why this matters: if the previous owner’s tag remains active, toll charges or disputes could hit their account—or worse, create confusion at plazas. Closing the loop now prevents later friction.

4) Title Transfer & Legal Cleanliness

  • Initiate the RC transfer process with the local RTO promptly after purchase; submit required forms, ID proofs, and fees within prescribed timelines.
  • Ensure no pending fines, challans, or legal cases against the vehicle; check e-challan portals and ask the seller for a clean record.
  • Confirm the engine and chassis numbers are legible and match the RC to avoid verification delays.
  • If relocating between states, understand NOC and road-tax implications before buying.

5) Mechanical & Electrical Systems: A Deeper Look

  • Engine health: stable idle, no smoke (blue/white/black), no warning lights.
  • Cooling system: steady temperature gauge; clean coolant; radiator fans kicking in.
  • Transmission & clutch: smooth shifts, no slip or burn smell; for automatics, check for jerks or delays.
  • Suspension & steering: no clunks over bumps; car tracks straight without pulling.
  • Electricals: all lights, power windows, infotainment, AC/heater, and parking sensors must function.
  • OBD scan (if possible): helps catch stored error codes that don’t show as dashboard warnings.

6) Price, Payment, and Protection

  • Benchmark the car’s fair market value using multiple listings of similar model, year, trim, and mileage.
  • Negotiate based on documented findings (tires, brakes, battery age, service gaps, paintwork).
  • Keep a clean paper trail: sale agreement, payment receipts, handover note listing both keys, tool kit, spare tire, and all documents.
  • Update insurance to your name from day one of ownership; consider comprehensive coverage for better protection.

7) Final Handover Checklist (Print & Tick)

  • RC original, insurance copy, PUC, service records, NOC/hypothecation removal (if applicable)
  • Two original keys + owner’s manual + tool kit + spare tire
  • VIN/engine number verified; FASTag deactivated and removed
  • Sale agreement signed; payment receipt issued
  • Odometer reading noted at handover; fuel level photographed
  • Immediate plan to file RC transfer at the RTO