When buying a used car in Dubai, having a verified service history of a vehicle is one of the most valuable assets. Not only does it provide accurate data about the car’s history, but it also helps you make an informed decision about its future reliability and value. In Dubai, where used cars are a popular choice, verifying a car’s service history is important to avoid headaches down the road.
This guide will walk you through the steps to check and authenticate your car service history effectively when buying a second-hand car.
Importance of a verified service history
A verified service history is important for several reasons. Number one, it reveals the vehicle’s maintenance and care level but also provides insights into its condition. For used car buyers, knowing the car’s service background can help you:
- Determine value: Cars with a complete and verified service history tend to retain their value better and are often more reliable.
- Avoid costly surprises: Verifying the history can help you spot potential red flags, such as missed maintenance or unrecorded repairs.
- Ensure safety: A well-documented history reassures buyers that the car has been properly maintained, enhancing its safety on the road.
While it may not signify that a car without a service history is in bad condition, having one available does provide peace of mind and more reliability. Buyers will feel more confident in purchasing a car where an owner can prove the vehicle has been taken care of, and it will also allow for better negotiations.
Checking service records on a used car
There are a few ways how you can access and verify a car’s history in Dubai:
- Request service records from authorized centers: Always start by asking the seller about the service record. In Dubai, many car owners service their vehicles at authorized dealerships, which keep detailed records of work. If the seller does not have complete records, you may still be able to retrieve them from authorized vehicle service centers by providing the car’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).
- Use the VIN for a background check: The VIN is a unique identifier that tracks the car’s history and maintenance details. In UAE, buyers and sellers usually refer to the VIN as the chassis number, which can be found on Mulkiya (registration card). For example, you may visit the MOI (Ministry of Interior) website to search for any accidents on a specific vehicle. Additionally, there are many online databases that will allow you to see a detailed report history. Keep in mind they usually generate a fee for a full report.
Common red flags in service history
Once you do receive a service history, pay attention to any red flags that could indicate underlying issues or a lack of proper maintenance.
That could include the following:
- Gaps in service records: Regular service intervals are essential for any car’s longevity. Gasps in service records may indicate that the car was neglected during certain periods, potentially leading to future mechanical issues.
- Unrecorded major repairs and damage: If a car has undergone major repairs, such as engine or transmission work, it should be reflected in the service history. The absence of records for significant repairs could mean that the work was performed outside the authorized service centers, raising questions about the quality of the repair work.
Authenticating Documentation
To avoid the risk of fraudulent or altered records, it is essential to verify the authenticity of the service documents. Here is how you can authenticate them:
- Check for fake or altered records: Fake service records can sometimes be identified by inconsistency in font, layout, or paper quality. Be cautious if anything looks out of order or if the documents seem suspiciously new for an older car.
- Verify stamps and dates: Dubai’s authorized service centers often use official stamps, signatures, and dates on service records. Call the service center to confirm these details if you are uncertain about something. Most centers will gladly verify their records if you provide the car’s VIN.
Keep in mind that fake records are very rare. In case you suspect the car’s documentation of being fraudulent, make sure to warn the seller and discuss the reasons behind their actions, as they can be penalized for such actions.
Overall vehicle condition
If a vehicle has not been properly serviced, you will most likely be able to identify that on the spot. A well-maintained car will have stickers on the driver’s door side indicating when the last service was performed. It will also show signs of wear and tear, such as dents, scratches, dirt, and similar.
To make sure the vehicle you are considering buying is in good condition, ask the seller for the following:
- Test drive: Enquire about a test drive. Most sellers will be glad to offer you a test drive if everything is fine with the car. In case the seller is hesitant to let you drive the car, consider that a red flag and perhaps a reason not to buy a car from them.
- Check the outside and inside of the vehicle: While examining the car, do a walk-around to check its condition. Pay attention to the tires, the engine mounting, dents, scratches, dirt under the wheels (as this may signify desert driving), and overall condition. While driving, pay attention to any noise or concerning sounds.
- Inquire information: Whenever you are buying a used car, inquire as much as possible from the seller in order to ensure the car’s condition. A seller who took care of the vehicle will know everything regarding servicing history, condition, and any minor details about the car. Feel free to ask as many questions as you have, and if the seller is trustworthy, they will gladly answer them and provide you with all the information required.
Conclusion
Buying a second-hand car in Dubai can be slightly stressful. With the great market saturation, it is hard to know who to trust and how to ensure the car’s condition. However, a service record is a tool that can greatly assist in the process, as it provides a clean and transparent vehicle history. After all, a well-documented car is often a well-maintained car, and knowing its history puts you in a position to make a smart investment in your new car.
The steps listed in this guide will assist you when purchasing a used car in Dubai, so you can be confident that the car you bought is well cared for and is ready to serve you well on Dubai roads.
