Buying a car is a bigger step than you might think, especially when you do it for the first time. Owning a car can be both fun and expensive, and the car you dreamed of may not always be the one you can afford.
A second-hand vehicle is often the most affordable solution. Not only because it is cheaper, but also because the first car is, as a general rule, the one in which we really learn to drive. In other words, small knocks can happen more frequently — and no one wants this to happen with a “brand new” car, right? However, when buying a used car for sale in lahore, it is important to know its condition and know what you are going to use it for. Find out what to take into account when purchasing your first car and what subsequent expenses should be included in the budget.
When buying a car: what is the purpose of use?
The moment I was looking forward to after getting my driving license arrive: buying the car. But before you do it, ask yourself why you are doing it. What use will you give the car? Are you going to take longer or shorter trips? Will it be for individual use or transporting more passengers? These may seem like unimportant questions, but in fact, the answers to these questions can help when making a choice. Depending on your needs, there are cars that are better adapted to the intended use.
Petrol, diesel, electric or hybrid?
This is another pertinent question when buying a car, and the answer to which will depend, once again, on how the vehicle will be used in lahore. Until relatively recently, the option seem simple: gasoline for those traveling shorter distances; diesel to travel long distances. But currently, manufacturers themselves are no longer investing in diesel engines, as they are linked to more polluting emissions.
According to the Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU), diesel is no longer the most advantageous option in terms of savings, when compared to other options. The cost of owning a diesel car today is 5.7% compare to a gasoline car, 5% higher than owning a hybrid and 5.8% higher than opting for an electric one.
Hybrids and electric vehicles have the advantage of being less harmful to the environment. However, the price and range of these cars become decisive factors when purchasing.
New or used?
Let’s be realistic: it’s with the first car that we discover driving, we make our first mistakes and the first dents appear. Is it worth investing in a vehicle that comes directly from the factory into our hands? It is certain that the entire life story of the car will begin with us and will, from the outset, have fewer mechanical problems than a used car, in addition to including the factory warranty. But it is also a much more expensive option.
One of the advantages of buying a second-hand car is the fact that you can save some money. This way, you can buy a better car that would not be affordable when new. Or have a car without having to use high credits. Furthermore, when buying new vehicles, there is a greater depreciation later than if you choose to buy a second-hand car.
Buy second hand safely
Buying a second-hand car can be a risk, as you don’t know its history. Therefore, you should pay attention to some details:
Start by checking, at a vehicle registration office, whether there are any encumbrances or charges on the vehicle, such as liens or mortgages. In the vehicle, look for traces of rust, dents, dents or deformations, check the opening of the doors and hood, the condition of the tires, the lights and the paintwork.
Regarding the interior, check if there is any damage to the upholstery, if the seats and belts work, and if there is no damage to the mirrors, buttons, locks or ignition key.
Start the engine to check for signs of damage or maintenance, check the oil level, battery expiration date and coolant tank. It is crucial to drive the vehicle to check the brakes, steering and any noise in the transmission.
This way, you can be sure that the car you buy, even if second-hand, has undergone a thorough evaluation: from the condition of the engine, to the safety systems, transmission, chassis, paintwork, brakes and even the cabin.
The cost of owning a car
Even before venturing into buying the car, other values arise — in addition to its final price. Owning a car can be expensive and it is important to understand whether the monthly budget covers the costs. In the list of expenses for a car, there is much more than the monthly payment (if you choose to buy a car through credit):
This is the Single Circulation Tax, a mandatory annual expense, calculated based on engine capacity and CO2 emissions. The value of this tax is changed every year by the Government. It varies between a dozen and a few hundred euros per year, also depending on the year of registration. Consult the IUC tables.
Insurance
It is mandatory to have at least civil liability insurance, even if the car is parked in the garage. There are several insurance options, depending on the value of the insurance company chosen and the coverage contracted, the age of the driver and the type of vehicle. Carry out a simulation to understand which insurance is best for your case, and how much you can expect to receive monthly.
Inspection
Another mandatory annual cost, the value of which is define every year by the Government. In 2024, the price for a passenger car is pkr31.49.
Inspections
Must be carried out regularly, for the safety of those who use the car, and preferably at authorized repairers. The prices will depend on the services contracted and the location where the inspection is carried out.
Fuel
It is a variable cost, as it depends on the car, the number of kilometers driven per month, the fuel you use and even the type of driving. In the case of electric ones, it is cheaper to charge them at home, but don’t forget that it will pay for it on your electricity bill.
Other unforeseen events
Over time, with wear and tear, the car auction Pakistan will need new parts: new tires, light bulbs, windshield wiper blades, dents or unforeseen breakdowns.
Documentation
When buying a car, it is necessary to register it at the registry office, as well as request the Single Automobile Document. These two processes have a cost, which may be lower if done online.
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