A car buying guide this festive season

Festivals in India are considered auspicious to make new purchases or start new ventures. The festivities are not just about good times and celebrations. Many of them postpone the most extravagant purchases for this time of the year. Jewellery, electronics, furniture, cars etc. are some of the things people look forward to buy as huge discounts are offered in this period. There are heavy discounts thrown during Diwali, Christmas, New year and are the most awaited festivals.

For those who are planning to zero in on a car this festive season, here are some of the things you should consider before getting the beauty home. The basic being searching the Internet. Which brand to buy? Which model to buy? The price range based on the fuel type and transmission etc.. Numerous factors should be taken into consideration.

Here are few things listed below should be taken care of:

1. Car Dealer - to boost sales dealers offer huge discounts during festive season. Now a days, there are multiple dealers across the city. Just drop in and compare the quotations given by them. They would include cash back offer, free insurance, free servicing for a certain period, exchange bonus and other such offers.

2. Insurance - car insurance is mandatory in India. Compare the premiums by the different insurance companies. The dealer may insist you to buy insurance from him as he gets a hefty commission from the company. Car insurance premium also contributes to the total cost of the car. Its higher in big cars. Compare the quotes online and opt for the car insurance if there is a significant difference in the premium. However, go through every detail mentioned in the policy.

3. Car Loans - it is advisable to compare the rates of different financial companies so that you get the best deal on your car. They also offer zero Down payment Charges and attractive interest rates.

After the dealer is finalized and the finances are taken care of, with regards to the purchase of the car, following things must be taken care of:

1. Pre Delivery Inspection - PDI is a process of inspecting the car before it hits the road. Be physically present at the dealer during Pre Delivery Inspection. Always do a PDI before the vehicle gets registered. PDI includes a complete check of interiors, exteriors, spare type check, electric components etc. Check if a comprehensive tool box is there in the car on not.

2. Check Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) - VIN is found on the engine of the car. The make of the car should not be of previous year. VIN provides you the details of the car and also the year of manufacturing. Don’t forget to take Form 22 from the car dealer as it has all the details about the car.

3. Make sure that you have the following documents after buying the car -Registration Certificate or Temporary Registration Certificate ( Form 19), the RC Book is not available so, you need to carry Form 19.

• User manual
• Original PUC Certificate
• VAT Invoice
• Copy of insurance(in case you are buying it from the dealer
• Warranty cards of tyres and battery
• Check if the details are filled in correctly.

4. Accessory Check - if you have bought any additional component like music system, AUX and USB device which enhances the beauty of your car then these things cannot be taken for granted. Check them twice. Recheck the parking sensors and the camera.

Last but not the least, do remember the above tips to make your car buying experience a wonderful and memorable one.