Expert Tips for Finding the Best Used Car Deals in the UAE

Buying a used car in the UAE can be a good move, particularly if you want to keep your budget in check while still considering a good car. However, locating the best used car deals in the UAE is not particularly straightforward. With a plethora of choices, as well as sellers, available, it's a good idea to know what to look for and how to shop wisely.

In this blog, CarPoint provides expert tips to help you find the best used car deals in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and beyond. If you are a first-time buyer or you're looking to upgrade, our tips will help you take away a great deal today.

What are the Benefits of Buying a Used Car in the UAE?

Before we get into the tricks, let’s first explain why you should even consider buying a used car in the UAE:

• Savings: save some extra cash versus purchasing new.
• Less Depreciation: Used cars depreciate less than new cars.
• Variety: There are so many makes and models to choose from.
• Luxury without the price tag: You can have luxury performance and reliability for a considerably smaller price tag.
• Less to insure.

Now let’s get into the details for how to find the best used car deals in the UAE.

Know Your Requirements

Knowing your requirements is the first step to finding the best used car dealers. Factors to consider are how many passengers you usually have, what kind of roads you typically drive, and do you prioritize fuel economy, comfort, or performance. 

For example, an individual commuting to work through Dubai traffic may prioritize a small fuel-efficient sedan, while a family living in Abu Dhabi might need a capable family SUV. Once you have identified the kind of vehicle that fits your lifestyle, you can narrow your search down. It will make your search much easier and productive.

Develop A Realistic Budget

Prior to shopping for a used car, it is important to create a budget. Your budget should be inclusive of the price of the car, plus insurance, registration, maintenance, and any repairs that may occur after the exchange. For example, keeping an open range as part of your budget allows for better negotiation, or minor servicing taken care of after the purchase. 

A budget can also determine value provided by researching used car prices on CarPoint.ae can clarify what you should be paying for the make and model you are considering. This might help to establish your limits of affordability and make sure you are receiving fair use of your money.

Use Trusted Car Marketplaces Like CarPoint

There are reliable methods of searching for a used car, and we advise you to skip the informal channels or classified ads and go straight to a place you can trust, like CarPoint.ae. Verified listings, honest-to-goodness business pricing, and a network of reputable dealers give consumers the capability to identify and avoid scammers and unreliable sellers. 

CarPoint provides consumers a network in which they can search by brand, price, body type, or mileage, giving easy comparisons, links to contact sellers, and the comfort of having access to the expertise of some professional support should you need help deciding or finalizing your purchase.

Examine the Car Closely

Make a thorough examination before you buy any second-hand car. This means looking for dents and signs of repainting on the bodywork; testing all of the functioning features inside, including the dashboard air conditioning; checking the tyre condition and seeing how the engine works. 

Even if the car looks good from the outside, mechanical issues hidden inside could cost you down the line. If you are not sure what to look for, it makes sense to invest in a professional car inspection service. CarPoint recommends that every buyer carry out a thorough checkup before finalizing the purchase.

Request for the Vehicle History 

Understanding the full history of a used car will enable you to make a more informed decision. Always request documentation that is certified to include service history, accident history, and ownership history. This will give you an insight into how well the vehicle was taken care of in terms of regular service intervals, as well if the vehicle had any major accidents. 

Your responsible seller will not have an issue providing this documentation. Since you are buying through Car Point, you can expect a high level of transparency from our partners on the history of the vehicles they list.

Test Drive Before Making The Purchase 

Test driving a vehicle is a critical part of the buying process as it allows you to evaluate how comfortable the car is, how it drives, how the engine sounds, and how the brakes feel. A short 10-15 minute drive will help identify potential issues that may not be apparent initially while looking at the car. 

Make sure to drive the car on different types of roadways and test its abilities in multiple conditions. If you notice any issues, such as vibrations, throttling, or odd noises, notify the seller before moving forward.

Negotiate Like a Pro

Don't simply accept the price first offered, and don't assume you have to pay more than you want. The salesperson does expect the buyer to bargain, and expects to be able to negotiate some discount on the price; therefore, you should be able to do so. 

You can always signify to the seller any blemishes, fraying, etc., you have found from inspecting the vehicle. Invite them to give you a discount based on your negotiated issues with the vehicle. You can also use other similar listings on CarPoint.ae to support your offer using primary market data. If you negotiate with respect and assurance, you may save yourself thousands of dirhams.

Check for Outstanding Loans or Fines

Before finalising the purchase, make sure you research any outstanding loans, traffic fines, or legal disputes that may taint the vehicle's history. These outstanding issues could cause you major hassles in completing the registration or ownership transfer. 

Ask the seller to prove they have cleared all outstanding fines or personal loans; alternatively, you can also check with RTA services. Clean status is essential to removing future liabilities and delays in registering the car in your name. 

CarPoint encourages used car buyers to be fastidious with this step, so you know there is no issue, and you can be confident with every road-based transaction.

Confirm All Paperwork

Once you are happy with the car and its history, confirm all documentation. This includes the Mulkiya (vehicle registration card), the seller's Emirates ID, service documentation, and existing insurance documentation. 

The originals are recommended, and if they are updated, you will have avoided any future complications. If you are not familiar with UAE vehicle laws, CarPoint can assist you and help verify that everything is acceptable before making the final payment.

Complete Your Purchase for the RTA 

Once verification is complete, it is now time to complete the purchase at your nearest RTA center. Completing the purchase means transferring ownership, registration, and paying any fees. 

If your insurance has lapsed or you wish to renew it, this can also be done at that time. At CarPoint.ae, we help buyers understand and prepare documentation for the RTA requirements, so that the purchase can go as quickly and efficiently as possible, and also to provide a hassle-free experience.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right used car at the right price in the UAE is all about preparation, the right approach, and using an honest platform to partner with. With CarPoint.ae, you benefit from verified listings, trusted dealers, and clear independent support every step of the way.

From setting your budget to completing the transfer with the RTA, we aim to make your journey easy and secure. Follow the expert techniques above, and drive your new used car away for a price you want!

FAQs

Q1: Is it safe to buy a used car online in the UAE? 

Absolutely, as long as you use a trusted site like CarPoint.ae that has verified listings and secure communication with sellers.

Q2: How can I tell if a used car in the UAE has been in an accident?

Always ask for a full service and accident history report. Most reputable sellers will provide this. You can also check it with RTA-approved centers.

Q3: Can I get a loan for a used car from the UAE?

Of course, many banks and car dealerships offer loans for used vehicles. CarPoint can connect you with the right finance partners.

Q4: What is the best time of year to buy a used car in the UAE?

At the end of the year, Ramadan, and the New Year, there are often promotions and discounts. it is a good time to buy.

Q5: Do I have to register the car again after I buy it used?

Yes, you will need to perform the ownership transfer and registration renewal through the RTA once the sale is complete.