Planning on buying a used car in UAE? This essential guide covers all critical things to check before buying a used car in uae, including a detailed Checklist for Buying a Used Car. From vehicle inspections to securing Car insurance in UAE, we’ll help you avoid costly mistakes and drive away confidently with your perfect second-hand vehicle.
Things to Check Before Buying a Used Car in UAE
Ensure a smart purchase with this essential Checklist for Buying a Used Car – covering mechanical, legal, and safety aspects for UAE buyers.
1. Service History and Maintenance Records
Verify documented service history to confirm regular oil changes, part replacements, and manufacturer-recommended care. Avoid cars with incomplete records or irregular servicing.
2. Mileage vs. Model Year Consistency
Confirm mileage aligns with UAE’s average of 10,000-15,000 km/year. High mileage (>130,000 km) may indicate excessive wear, while unusually low readings could suggest odometer tampering.
3. Exterior Condition – Dents, Paint Thickness, Rust
Inspect all panels for mismatched paint (indicating repairs), uneven gaps, dents, or corrosion. Use a paint thickness gauge to identify hidden bodywork variations >30% signal prior accidents.
4. Interior Condition – Seats, Dashboard, Electronics
Test all electronics (windows, mirrors, seat adjustments) and inspect upholstery for tears or stains. Musty odors may reveal flood damage – a critical red flag in UAE’s climate.
5. Engine Health – Oil Level, Leaks, Unusual Noise
Check for fluid leaks under the vehicle and inspect oil (burnt smell = transmission issues). Listen for knocks or rattles during cold starts – repair costs here are often catastrophic.
6. Tyres – Tread Depth and Even Wear
Measure tread depth (>3mm recommended). Uneven wear indicates alignment or suspension problems – a safety hazard requiring immediate investment.
7. Lights & Indicators – Full Functional Check
Operate all lighting (headlights, fog lights, brake lights, indicators). Malfunctions signal electrical issues and will fail UAE roadworthiness tests.
8. Airbags – SRS Light and Replacement Signs
Confirm airbag warning lights activate briefly, then turn off. Check the dashboard seams for mismatches or missing Safety Restraint System (SRS) logos – signs of undeclared deployments.
9. AC System & Infotainment – Proper Cooling and System Response
Test AC at max cooling for 10+ minutes – vital for UAE summers. Verify infotainment connectivity (Bluetooth, navigation) – repairs are costly.
10. Test Drive Insights – Acceleration, Braking, Alignment
Assess engine responsiveness at highway speeds, brake pedal firmness, and steering pull. Listen for suspension noises over bumps – misalignment causes rapid tire wear.
Chassis & VIN Number Verification
Critical step in buying a used car in UAE – Read more about Chassis Number Check UAE, which prevents legal/financial risks before you make the purchase.
Match VIN Across Documents
Verify identical VIN on chassis plate, Mulkiya (registration), and insurance papers. Mismatches indicate potential title washing or theft.
Official UAE Accident Checks
Use EVG.ae or RTA’s official platforms with chassis number to uncover:
- Accident severity (minor to total loss)
- Airbag deployments
- Odometer rollback attempts
Insurance Claim Red Flags When Buying a Used Car in UAE
Reject vehicles with:
- “Salvaged” status in insurance history
- Frequent claims for same damage
- Liability write-offs (flood/fire damage common in UAE)
Documents to Review Before Buying a Used Car in UAE
Non-negotiable paperwork for your Checklist for Buying a Used Car:
Valid Mulkiya (Registration)
Confirm registration is current with matching owner/seller details. Expired Mulkiya incurs AED 500/month fines.
Seller ID Verification
Require Emirates ID (UAE nationals) or passport + visa (expats). Cross-check with Mulkiya owner details.
Insurance Status
Active policy OR cancellation letter with:
- No outstanding claims
- Clear transfer eligibility
Bank Clearance Letter
Essential when buying a used car in UAE with a financed status. This document confirms full payment. Without this, banks can repossess the car.
Where to Inspect & Verify When Buying a Used Car in UAE
UAE-certified centers for comprehensive checks
Certified Inspection Services
- Tasjeel/RTA Centers: Mandatory for registration (basic 25-point check)
- Autopro/Autohub: Advanced diagnostics (160+ points)
- Carasti: Premium 280-point inspection with paint scan
Inspection Package Comparison
| Basic (AED 150-250) | Advanced (AED 350-500) |
|---|---|
| • Brake/light tests | • Engine compression test |
| • Fluid level checks | • ECU error code scanning |
| • Tire assessment | • Undercarriage camera inspection |
Negotiating the Used Car Price
After all of this is done, it will be time for haggling over the price. There is a great deal of difference between the price of used cars, even cars from the same model, and there is usually a reason for that.
Understand Market Value
To reach an estimated valuation of your preferred model, it is important to do extensive research. You should check similar options and see how much each cost or Cost of Car Insurance and what the more expensive ones have that the cheaper options don’t.
Prepare to Negotiate
Every seller expects the buyers to haggle over the price, that’s why they usually list a higher price than the one they are actually willing to sell their car for. So don’t be afraid to haggle, they will let you! You can ask for them to remove things like stereo or custom rims if you are looking for a better deal.
Leverage inspection findings for better deals
- Demand 15-25% discount for undisclosed accident damage
- Deduct repair costs (e.g., AED 1,200 for tire replacement, AED 800 for AC recharge)
- Use service history gaps to justify offers
Finalizing the Purchase of the Used Car
After all of this is completed, it will be time to make everything official.
Verify Paperwork
You will also need to check the car’s documents and make sure everything is in order, such as the registration and inspection certificate.
Secure Financing
If you are getting a loan to buy a car, you will need to make sure everything is in order and that you can access the money whenever you need it.
Post-Purchase Tips for the Used Car
Transfer Ownership
This step is the last and also the most essential part of buying a used car. Fortunately, the process is quite straightforward and can be done both online and in person.
In order to Transfer Car Ownership in UAE, the car must first be insured by the buyer and then undergo an inspection. After these, you can visit any RTA center with the required documents and finish the job in less than half an hour. Read more about How to transfer car ownership.
Schedule Maintenance
As we mentioned above, regular maintenance is what ensures good performance and durability. Since you don’t know how your car has been treated by its previous owner, one of the tips you find in every guide for buying used cars is a quick tune-up session right after you buy it; this includes an oil change, changing the air and oil filters, etc.
Insurance Transfer
Complete within 24 hours via online portals. Read more about How to Transfer Car Insurance in UAE.
Critical Maintenance
- Timing belt replacement (if >100,000 km)
- Coolant flush (UAE heat accelerates degradation)
Review Car Insurance in the UAE Online
Buying car insurance in UAE for a used car is a prerequisite for registering it, so you will need to look for an insurance plan as the first thing you need to consider after completing the transaction. After you manage to find the perfect car with the help of our tips for buying used cars, you can head over to our website and explore your insurance options.
Whether you want comprehensive insurance or third-party liability, you can take care of all your insurance-related needs online. Just go to our website and put in your car’s information. You’ll receive a whole list of quotes from some of the best providers out there in no time.
Secure Your Dream Car with Confidence
By following this comprehensive Checklist for Buying a Used Car and verifying all things to check before buying a used car in UAE, you’re now equipped to make an informed decision. Remember that securing proper Car insurance in UAE isn’t just mandatory – it’s your financial safety net. With thorough inspections and smart negotiations, your journey to owning a reliable used car ends here. Drive safely!
Frequently Answered Questions
What is the procedure to buy a second hand car in the UAE?
Research → Inspect at certified center (e.g., Tasjeel) → Verify VIN/docs → Negotiate → Transfer at RTA + insurance
What is the most important thing to consider when buying a used car?
Professional inspection + VIN history check via EVG.ae. Avoid salvage titles or odometer discrepancies.
How to get insurance when buying a used car?
Buying insurance for a used vehicle is similar to insuring brand-new cars. You have to first compare quotes online, choose the best option for yourself, and provide vehicle details to your agent. They will take care of the rest.
What is the most important thing to consider when buying a used car?
Before buying a used car make sure to check its history and mileage first, and then test every function from the overhead light to the AC and stereo. Also, make sure you have a trusted mechanic run a complete array of tests on it if you yourself are not an expert.
Should I buy a warranty on a used car?
If it’s available and fits your budget a warranty can be a good thing as it offers peace of mind against unexpected repairs. Optional extended warranty is on average AED 2,000/year.
Which car is best to buy second hand in the UAE?
Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Patrol (resale value) or Toyota Camry (budget). Prioritize GCC specs under 100,000 km. Read more about the best cheap used cars in UAE 2025.
