Buying a car - The most important tips for buying a car

Know your needs to buy a car

When buying a car, you should first ask yourself the basic question: What do I actually need the car for? The way to work? My family of seven? For the weekend ride? Once you have clarified this question, you already know which vehicle types will be shortlisted.

Find out about car deals

Whether you're looking for a convertible or a family van – there are dozens of models per segment. If you don't have a preference for a particular brand or model, you should always look for much-searched models and popular colors.

In the course of the search, some vehicles will emerge as concrete purchase candidates. Before you decide right away, read the ad carefully and mark important information (general information in the ad text, notes in the equipment details and about the seller).

Compare car listings

Take advantage of your opportunities: AutoScout24 has over 135,000 vehicles on offer. So in most cases you will find several cars that are comparable in terms of age, mileage and equipment. This way you can get an idea of the market price and estimate your room for manoeuvre in price negotiations.

So that you don't lose track of things while searching, there is our watch list. By clicking on the "Save" symbol in the ad, you can keep an eye on interesting offers. And: Print out the advertisements. They serve as a thought aid and evidence in later negotiations.

Buying a car - What costs will I have to pay?

Once you've shortlisted a few vehicles, compare the information in the ad with your budget. The first question is usually: How do I finance the car purchase? Here you have a few options to choose from: cash, credit or leasing.

The bottom line, however, is that not only the purchase price, but also the annual cost of a vehicle is decisive. Therefore, calculate what expenses (depreciation, taxes, insurance,...) you will have to pay. You can find help in our guide to car costs.

Testing & Negotiation

If the selected vehicles are within your budget, it's time for a meeting with the seller. Get in touch with them – by phone or via the practical contact form in the advertisement.

When meeting the salesperson, it is also important that you can study all relevant documents – e.g. the service booklet. If the seller is not a dealer, there are a few additional points to consider.

Appointment with car salesman

• Choose a time when there is still enough daylight.

• Take a flashlight with you to look at the underbody.

Duration of the meeting

• Plan enough time for the meeting to get a good impression of the vehicle on offer. Tip: Use our checklist for this.

Take your car ad and support with you

• Take the printed advertisement with you to check whether the car and accessories match the descriptions and whether information about the MFK, for example, is true.
• Ask a friend who has experience with cars to accompany you. Four eyes see more than two.

Be careful & don't put pressure on

• You don't know the seller, so caution is advised. And don't let yourself be pressured with seemingly other interested parties who pay more.

If the information is correct, it is time for a test drive and the technical assessment of the car.

Speaking of vehicle assessment: With the free CarCheck app, you have practical step-by-step instructions and documentation options for any defects right on your smartphone during the inspection. Try it out and strengthen your negotiating position!

Sealing & Securing

If you agree with the seller, you should definitely conclude a written contract to avoid ambiguity about price and warranty.

You can find a sample template along with other tips in our guide to the purchase contract. There are also a few points to consider for the subsequent handover.