Layman's checklist before purchasing a second hand vehicle

I recently wanted to purchase a second hand motorcycle, but couldn't find any suitable information or guidance for buying a second hand two wheeler. This post highlights my first hand experience after purchasing a second vehicle and the necessary checks, which one should carry out before purchasing the vehicle:

Statutory checks/Formalities:

1. Does the vehicle has registration number of the state, where you intend to use the vehicle? If not then you could waste a significant time and money to get the transfer done?

   
   




2. Is the vehicle hypotheticated or financed? Check the RC Book and Invoice to confirm

   
   




3. Is the present seller, first owner of the bike? Multiple owner means possible more wear and tear to the vehicle

   
   




4. Are necessary papers in place, i,e, RC book, PUC, Insurnace?

   
   




5. Is there any accident history, or pending traffic challans, or theft history of the bike? Most RTO nowadays offer an online interface to check the above by putting the chassis number/engine number or the vehicle registeration number

   
   




6. Get signed Form 28 (NOC) and Form 29 (Ownership transfer form) signed by the seller. Make sure to register the vehicle in your name within 14 days of the purchase

   
   

Vehicle Check List

1. Check the age and kilometers driven of the vehicle. More these values, lesser should be the price

   
   




2. Look for visible accident marks, scratches, etc. on the chassis

   
   




3. Without starting the bike, but turning the ignition on, try pressing horn. A feeble noise means low battery

   
   




4. Look for wear and tear on the tyres

   
   




5. Is Speedometer, Milometer working?

   
   




6. Ask for last servicing bills, if any

   
   




7. Does engine makes any weird noise? If yes, you better not buy the bike, without further analysis.

   
   

Last but not the least, for a detailed check and peace of mind, if possible, take the bike to the nearest authorized service station and get a thorough analysis done.

Closing Note:

Quality comes at a price. Dont fall into trap of buying any vehicle, just beacuse it is cheap. If the vehicle passes on all the above parameters, it will probably be expensive than the rest but then it will be worth it.

Happy buying.