Prepare before the appointment
Save the advert and make a short list of the details you want to confirm: make, model, year, mileage, transmission, asking currency, and included accessories. Ask who is selling the car and whether they can explain its history. Arrange enough time to view it in daylight. This checklist helps organise a viewing; it is not a mechanical inspection or valuation.
Look around the car carefully
Walk around slowly and compare the vehicle with the listing photos. Look for visible rust, damaged trim, uneven gaps, different paint shades, and cracks in the glass. Check the tyres for visible damage and uneven wear. Record anything you want a mechanic to assess. A clean exterior or a freshly washed engine does not tell you the condition of the parts underneath.
Check the cabin and everyday functions
Try the seat adjustments, windows, locks, lights, horn, and other controls you expect to use. Check the air conditioning during the viewing rather than relying on the advert. Look for damp areas, unusual smells, and excessive wear. Note warning lights and ask what they mean. Do not accept a warning light explanation as a diagnosis without an independent assessment when needed.
Ask about maintenance and identity
Ask for available service records, repair invoices, and the explanation for any gaps in the history. Compare identifying details on the vehicle with the documents the seller presents. Ask whether there are outstanding issues that affect the sale. If ownership or vehicle identity is unclear, stop and obtain proper clarification. Do not publish copies of someone else's documents in a listing or public conversation.
Arrange a suitable test and inspection
Agree the conditions of a test drive beforehand, including permission, the driver, and appropriate cover. Pay attention to starting, braking, steering, shifting, unusual sounds, and how the car feels. Do not take risks to test its limits. Before committing, consider an independent mechanic chosen by you. Ask for written findings and an explanation of urgent repairs versus routine maintenance.
Confirm the complete agreement
Clarify whether the price is XCG or USD, what is included, and which steps must be completed before payment and handover. Record agreed repairs, accessories, and the number of keys. Check the current transfer and insurance requirements with the relevant providers before driving away. Do not rely on the listing or this guide as confirmation that the vehicle is ready to transfer or use.
A reviewed marketplace advert is not a vehicle inspection. If the seller pressures you to skip checks or pay before you understand the arrangement, give yourself time to reconsider.