Checklist for Buying Used Cars in UAE – Accident History, Tyres, and More

Checklist for Buying Used Cars in UAE – Accident History, Tyres, and More 

The UAE has been in the process of developing and modernizing its public transportation, but the fact still is that a car is vital in many of the daily operations, roles, and even adventures of the citizens of the UAE. A personal vehicle is a freedom that can have no substitute, both to new calls and longtime residents.

UAE used car market is the place where the unprepared can find himself/herself being in a battlefield: tires that have gone bald or expired, cars adequately dressed, but with a hidden history of accidents, overheating issues, car’s maintenance records missing, and so forth. 

Your safety, investment, and peace of mind are at stake, and therefore kicking the tyres and getting the paperwork signed is not good enough. It requires knowledge, organization, and advice on the part of professionals to never commit an expensive error and to see your car in all respects ready to pass on the road.

This is why Autofix UAE, a faithful national chain that deals with all kinds of car maintenance, tyre checks, electrical diagnostics, and air conditioning disinfection, has developed this detailed list for you to have a handful of knowledge on things to know before buying a used car UAE.

Understanding the Risks: Why Used Car Due Diligence is Critical in the UAE

The UAE is one nation that is addicted to vehicles, and there is no better way of expressing this obsession than in the 2nd hand motor market. There are always plenty of used cars on the market, between expats arriving and leaving, and the constantly changing demands of a highly mobile working population, and the need to continually upgrade to the latest model. The only thing is that quantity is not always synonymous with quality.

The most appalling part to the ordinary consumer is that not all the problems are easily detected at face value by the naked eye and on a mere test drive. Other mechanical and electronic problems may hide under the glossy surface, and used cars reported to have been previously serviced might have neglected some of the fundamental needs. 

To help buyers avoid potential pitfalls, Autofix UAE offers a nationally recognized pre-purchase inspection service, as well as targeted post-purchase care packages tailored to local conditions.

Also Read: What Is a Full Service In a Car?

How Autofix Ensures a Reliable Used Car Inspection

Autofix is known for more than just tyre specialists; we are trusted for holistic car care, offering everything from car servicing, repairs, and parts replacements to thorough second-hand car inspections.

When it comes to buying a used car, appearances can be deceiving; therefore, our certified experts follow a systematic, multi-point diagnostic process to analyse the true condition of a car.

Here is how we check:

1. Fuel Tank Leaks

Safety is uncompromisable. We first inspect the fuel system for leaks, as even a minor seepage can pose a serious fire hazard. This should always be the first step of car checks before you even take the car for a test drive.

2. Engine Performance

The engine is a vital part of the car. We test its functionality, durability, and efficiency to determine whether the car is worth the money the seller is asking for. We also assess fuel economy to ensure the vehicle will be cost-effective to run in the long term.

3. Airbag & Safety System Functionality

At Autofix, your safety is our priority. Our car checking checklist also contains the functionality of airbags, as your life depends on them. In the UAE, where road conditions are unpredictable due to rash driving and other factors, checking airbags and other critical safety components is crucial.

4. Car Tyre Condition

It's a common practice for the sellers to apply tyre shine to worn-out tyres on the used cars to make them look new. At Autofix, we look deep, beyond shiny surfaces - inspecting tread depth, wear patterns, and structural integrity to ensure the tyres are truly road-safe. If replacement is needed, we offer top-quality tyres in the UAE from leading brands. 

5. Comprehensive Performance Analysis

Our service centres are equipped with the latest diagnostic tools that provide up to 99% accuracy in assessing a used car's overall performance. From suspension to electronics, no minor detail goes unchecked at Autofix.

With presence across the Sultanate of Oman, the Gulf Region, North Africa, and South Asia, and multiple authorised service centres in the UAE, Autofix offers reliable, expert-led inspections that provide a clear view of the used car before you make a purchase decision. Our mission is simple - to make your rides safer, smoother, and stress-free.

Inspections & Smart Checks

Next, a critical inspection to determine the state of the car is vital, as the heat in the UAE can severely affect a car, including the sandy conditions and long road trips along the highways. The shiny look on the surface of second-hand cars can be a mask for serious problems in the engine, transmission, electrical, or suspension system. And this is why you need to have a sensible, organized inspection as your top priority:

Also Read: Essential Car Checks Before a Long Trip

Inspections Key steps:

• Professional Diagnostics: Hire the services of a quality national inspection company. Certified specialists provide objective evaluations, checking for concealed defects using advanced diagnostic devices.

• Multi-Point Checks: Inspection is a must for brakes, suspension, electronics, A/C, and above all, the tyres.

• Test Drive Protocol: Do not miss a test drive, and better yet, take with you a trained technician. They are able to detect minor problems with handling, vibrations, or noises that you would not detect.

Pro-Tip: Having a reliable partner to turn to when it comes to servicing of the car will not just ensure that a thorough pre-purchase assessment is done but will also be helpful in receiving a customized after-sales support once a driver has acquired a used car, in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah.

Documentation & Ownership History

Paperwork is mandatory for all used cars in UAE. Always make it a point to check all transfer and documentation of any second-hand car before you decide to invest in a car in Dubai or Abu Dhabi:

Checklist for reviewing documents:

• Sequence of property ownership: How many past owners? Changes occur often, and this can be a red light.

• Registration documents: Ensure that the second-hand car has been registered under the name of the seller and make sure that it has not expired.

• Loan / fine clearance: No outstanding loans, fines, or legal cases.

• Service records: Look at frequent, current maintenance. Watch out for this space within gaps or blanks.

• Transfer records: Verify all previous transfers by verified RTA means.

Lesson: It is non-negotiable as far as transparency is concerned. When excuses are 

being made by a seller or some form of paperwork does not seem to be complete, just walk away, as your peace of mind relies on due diligence.

Verifying Car Accident History in UAE

There are too many buyers who continue to trust sellers regarding their car accident history. However, because of a tendency to simply cover a defect underneath with something cosmetic, official paperwork, and the opinion of a trained and certified inspector is the only thing to rely on in such a market.

Why is it so important? Since an accident, and more so a damage that destroys the car frame, steering system, or the airbags, can leave irreparable problems that may only be revealed at highway speeds or when an emergency movement is being made. 

How to Check Car Accident History in UAE 

The regulatory landscape in the UAE provides buyers with a greater advantage than ever before to be fired up with facts. Every Emirate has official web-based services where the chassis number or the VIN of the car can be checked to see whether there are cases of accident reported and repairs made:

• Ministry Interior (MOI) Online Portal: All emirates are covered. Conduct a search based on the chassis/VIN to get an overview of any accidents that has been reported.

How to Check: MOI Fine

Checking fine on MOI portal is simple, just follow these 9 steps;

Step 1: Visit the official MOI Website at moi.gov.qa.

Step 2: Navigate to the E-Services section, and choose "Traffic and Licensing".

Step 3: Choose an option that says Traffic Fines / Access Fine / Start Service.

Step 4: Log in using your MOI credentials or UAE Pass.

Step 5: Choose a method as per your need, including “By Plate Number“, “By Traffic Code Number", “By License Number“, or "Emirates ID".

Step 6: Complete the captcha verification if prompted.

Step 7: Select the fine you wish to pay and select the payment mode.

Step 8: Let’s say you select the credit card option. Enter your card details and confirm the payment.

Step 9: Your fine will be paid successfully. You’ll receive a confirmation message on your registered mobile number.

That’s it, this is how you can do MOI Fine Check and can pay it easily.

• Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG): You will find the service especially helpful when operating with an Abu Dhabi-registered vehicle - will give its access to insurance claims, fines and maintenance records.

How to Check: EVG Fine

Checking a car’s fine on EVG is quite easy. Follow the following steps for easy fine updates.

• Step 1: Visit the official EVG Website at evg.ae.
• Step 2: Click on the “Pay Traffic Fines” Option.
• Step 3: Choose a method as per your need, including “By Plate Number“, “By Traffic Code Number,” or “By License Number“.
• Step 4: Select your option and enter the relevant details of your vehicle.
• Step 5: After typing the details, press “Enter“.
• Step 6: You’ll be able to see your vehicle fines - Car Accident History.
• Step 7: Select the fine you wish to pay and select the payment mode.
• Step 8: Let’s say you select the credit card option. Enter your card details and confirm the payment.
• Step 9: Your fine will be paid successfully. You’ll receive a confirmation message on your registered mobile number.

That’s how you can do EVG Fine Check and can pay it easily.