Hints on Buying a car, motorcycle, vehicle in Cyprus

If you are thinking about buying, selling a car, 4x4, motorcycle, van, truck, lorry commercial, plant, specialist vehicles, trailers, caravans, salvage, parts, or spares in Cyprus, look no further.
Buying a car or any motor vehicle is probably one of the most expensive single items you will buy apart from a house or a boat. So read our helpful hints.

1. Remember you are the buyer – whether you are buying from a car dealer, a private sale or at an auction always check the registration documents. This will validate the ownership and will have the engine and chassis number listed.

2. Check on the vehicle that the engine number and the chassis number match the documentation. If you know of a main car, motorcycle dealer of the specific vehicle ring them first and find out where you can locate the numbers on the vehicle.

3. Decide prior to viewing the vehicle a list of questions you are going to ask. If possible write the questions down and get the seller to sign the answers.

4. Ask if the car, vehicle has a new or reconditioned engine.

5. Ask if it has ever been in an accident.

6. Ask if the mileage/kilometres are correct.

7. Look at service history to double check the mileage/kilometres

8. Always test drive the vehicle, make sure the test drive is long enough to determine whether it suits you, your family and your budget. Try driving on a route which takes you through a town, into the country and open road driving.

9. Ensure you have insurance coverage for the test drive.

10. Look after the test drive for leaks, whether oil or water. Remember in a hot country especially in Cyprus if a vehicle has air conditioning they do leak out water from a specified point but this is clean water not discoloured.

11. If possible, take the vehicle to a garage of your choice or a main dealer of the specified vehicle. Ask them to check it out.

12. Check the electrics in the car. Do all the dashboard lights, light up when you turn on the ignition. Check all movable controls, wipers, lights etc. Electric windows, central locking faults can be expensive to repair.

13. Check the body work of the vehicle for colour changes on panels; look for rust especially under the wheel arches and the sills.

14. Look under the bonnet, in the boot, or in the storage area for newly welded panels, or new spray paint.

15. Make sure if the stereo or added extras are included in the price.

16. What guarantees or warranties come with the vehicle?

17. Check the cost of the insurance.

18. Check the cost of the tyres.

19. Check the cost of the vehicles licence.

20. Check that the vehicle is generally in good condition take your time, do not be rushed and make sure it fits within the budget you have.

Added Hints for Motorcycles and Scooters

1. On motorcycles and scooters check the disk brakes (if fitted) for grooves on the disks or abnormal wearing.

2. Check the condition of the chain and rear sprocket to see if it is worn.

3. Check the oil seals on the front forks.

4. Check the head bearings, on the bike (when you move or turn the handlebars slightly, feel for “notchiness” as you move them).

5. Check for play in the swinging arm bearings.

6. When the motorbike is stood idling listen for abnormal engine noises. 

7. Check the clutch, has the clutch got clearance before it gentle bites or does it have a snatching effect.

8. If the vehicle has spoke wheels check all the spokes are tight. If alloy wheels check for rim damage.

9. Check the exhaust to make sure that it is not leaking.

10. Check the fairing/covers for damage and cracks. Look closely at the end of the handle bars and indicator for damage.

11. Check that the vehicle is in general good condition.

12. Ensure that the motorcycle, scooter fits within your budget.