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What to do after purchasing a used car

After buying a car, you might be tempted to smell that new car. Before you buy a used car, learn what to do after buying a used car. 

Get an inspection

If you buy a used car, you may need to get an automobile inspection. By performing a comprehensive car safety inspection immediately after purchase, problems can be discovered within the time frame when the car can be returned for serious unforeseen problems. Get it inspected from a qualified car inspection company. They can check your transmission, engine, exhaust system, and other critical systems. You can book your inspection here

Transfer the title

You cannot legally drive a new vehicle if it is not properly registered. Transferring car ownership, he said, is a two-step process and requires both the seller and the buyer to be involved. First, ask the seller to transfer ownership. If you buy a used car from a dealer, the dealer can do this automatically. However, if purchased from an individual, you may need to complete the transfer with the VIC Roads

Get Insurance

Before you can register and drive your car, you must get a car insurance. When driving a car, you can be involved in an accident at any time, so it’s important to get insurance as soon as possible.

  • Helps protect drivers from financial liability in the event of an accident.
  • Protect the value of your car and protect both the owner and the renter.
  • Vehicles can be registered and compliant with all state laws, if required .

Get registered

Ownership, all loan documents, insurance cards, and government ID are required to register a used vehicle.

Each registration requirement is different but may include:

  • Sales contract
  • Car title signed to you
  • Insurance documents
  • Driver’s license or government-issued photo ID
  • In-state address or proof of residency
  • Passed inspection and discharge documents
  • Deposit information
  • Lien information  

Schedule maintenance

Regular maintenance of your car can improve its performance and extend its life. Always change the oil and monitor the fluid level as recommended. Other parts may need to be replaced depending on mileage. Therefore, always refer to your owner’s manual for regular maintenance of your vehicle’s transmission, belts, spark plugs and other components. 

Pickup tags

If you aren’t transferring a license plate, you may be given temporary tags when registering your vehicle.

Schedule repairs

If any issues are found during the inspection, plan for any necessary repairs. Try to take care of it as soon as possible to avoid expensive repairs in the future.

When speaking with your mechanic, ask them to check the following:

  • All filters
  • All liquids
  • Brake
  • Tire 

Bill of sale

A sales contract is presented after the purchase of a used car. It acts as a receipt and indicates the purchase price, buyer’s name, seller’s name, and associated fees, taxes, and conditions.

This document must be presented at the time of vehicle registration. It is also used by state agencies when calculating used car sales taxes. Registration and taxes are usually done automatically when you go to the dealer.