7 pitfalls to avoid
7 pitfalls to avoid when buying a used car in Belgium
7 pitfalls to avoid when buying a used car in Belgium
Buying a used car is often a good deal — but it's also a terrain where nasty surprises are frequent. Here are the most common pitfalls in Belgium and how to protect yourself.
1. The tampered odometer
This is the most classic pitfall. In Belgium, the CarPass is your best protection: this mandatory document traces the history of the vehicle's mileage readings. Demand it systematically and check the consistency between the displayed mileage and the CarPass history.
2. The undeclared accident vehicle
A vehicle that has suffered a serious accident may have structural problems invisible to the naked eye. Always ask if the vehicle has been in an accident. If in doubt, have the bodywork inspected by an independent body shop that can detect traces of repair.
3. The expired or manipulated technical inspection
Check the date of the last technical inspection and any remarks. A vehicle sold with a recent "green" inspection certificate offers more guarantees. Be wary of vehicles sold "without inspection" at rock-bottom prices.
4. Hidden costs
The displayed price is not always the final price. Ask about preparation costs, VAT (deductible or not), registration fees and any administrative charges. A transparent professional dealer will detail all costs before signing.
5. Non-existent or limited warranty
In Belgium, the legal warranty for a purchase from a professional is a minimum of one year. Some unscrupulous dealers try to limit or exclude it. Never sign a document that waives your legal warranty rights.
6. Listings too good to be true
A price clearly below market value should raise your suspicions. Always compare with similar vehicles. If an offer seems too good, it probably is. Choose platforms that verify the identity of professional sellers.
7. Buying without trying
Never rely solely on photos and the description. A test drive is essential: test the vehicle when cold, on different types of roads, and check all equipment. It's the only way to detect mechanical problems before they become yours.