Where to look for a used car
A used car can come from an official dealership or a private seller. In the Avtodom and AutoSpetsCenter group, the head of the used car division, Andrey Grishakov, notes that the safest approach is to work with an authorized dealer. In today’s North American market, that guidance sits alongside certified pre-owned programs that provide inspection records and warranty, giving buyers added confidence. For many shoppers, the simplest rule remains the same: start with reputable dealers, and if a private sale is the only option, proceed with extra checks and verification.
Industry experts urge caution with private sales. If a private deal is the route, it is wise to buy from people the buyer knows and trusts. When that isn’t possible, rely on major marketplaces that verify sellers, present a clear vehicle history, and confirm ownership. Irrespective of the path, demand a complete service history and a current inspection report before concluding the deal.
Which used car should you choose
Market data from the research firm NAPI shows that as of August 2024 the most common passenger cars in the used market were over 15 years old, making up about 40 percent of listings. The top domestic model by sales was the 2011 Lada Priora, while the best-selling foreign model was the 2008 Ford Focus. When choosing a used car, experts suggest considering less popular brands or models, as long as the vehicle’s mechanical condition is solid and well documented. The emphasis should be on the health of the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, and steering rather than age alone.
Vehicles that previously served as taxis, ride-hailing cars, or delivery vehicles may carry higher wear in some components, so prior usage matters. The prior usage should be weighed with the car’s maintenance history and current condition. While higher mileage does not automatically spell trouble, it requires careful inspection and verification of maintenance records. A car with low mileage but a poor service history can be a red flag, so buyers should seek a complete picture before deciding.
According to Roman Titov, deputy general manager of used cars at Avilon, much depends on how the car was operated, how regularly it was inspected, and how well it was repaired. He warns that buying a vehicle with low mileage but a checkered accident history or missing service records introduces risk. The prudent approach is to verify maintenance logs, confirm the service history, and obtain a professional evaluation before purchase.
How to control a car
Odometer tampering remains a known risk in the secondary market, but several practical steps help uncover the true mileage. Start with a visual check of the paint and windshield for chips and wear that align with the reported age. Look for wear on the steering wheel, pedals, and seat covers, and assess the chassis and engine for unusual noises or rough shifting. These indicators provide a solid first impression, according to the after-sales service director at Avtodom Altufyevo, Roman Timashov.
More advanced methods include cross-checking gauge readings with engine hours in dashboard data blocks, reviewing mileage logs in service histories, and confirming activity through service portals or apps. A transparent ownership history offers strong assurance of mileage accuracy. Timashov adds that visiting a dealer for part replacements and arranging a professional inspection at a service station can further verify the car’s condition. VIN checks reveal accident history, number of prior owners, and whether the vehicle appears on stolen-car databases.
Beyond mileage, the core concern is the mechanical condition: the engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension should perform reliably. Inspect the body for rust, dents, and uneven paint, and check for irregular gaps that may indicate post-accident repairs. A careful buyer prioritizes a solid service history and structural integrity, rather than taking mileage at face value.
What should you be careful about?
Prospective buyers should be cautious when a car shows very low mileage but appears undermaintained, as such a combination can demand substantial investment after purchase. Comparing the asking price with current market offers is prudent; a price that seems too good to be true often hides issues. Always take a test drive to gauge road behavior, ride comfort, steering response, and braking performance under different conditions.
Rushing to close a deal can lead to mistakes. A seller who is overly eager to finish the sale may be trying to push through an incomplete transaction. Ensuring that all required documents and keys are in order helps prevent downstream complications.
What documents are needed
The purchase of a used car should rest on ownership documents properly issued by the relevant traffic authority. The primary document is a sale agreement that can be prepared in any standard format and does not require notarization when buying from a private party. If the car is bought from an official dealer, experienced staff will prepare a thorough contract. When the transaction is private, the sale and purchase agreement should exist in three copies: one for the buyer, one for the seller, and one for the issuing authority.
The contract should specify the exact price, payment terms, transfer procedure, absence of liens, vehicle passport information, issue date, and the buyer and seller details along with the signing date and place. When returning the vehicle, complete an acceptance document that records the transfer, the car’s condition, and any claims related to payment or the vehicle itself. Payment is typically made after the documents are finalized; if payment is by cash, the seller should issue a receipt acknowledging receipt of funds.
What to do after buying a car
After a successful purchase, the new owner should have the keys, the vehicle passport, the vehicle registration certificate, the vehicle title document, and any security labels or service records that accompany the car. Within ten days, the owner should apply to the traffic police to re-register the vehicle in their name, and the place of registration does not depend on residence. To complete the registration, an application form, the owner’s passport, the vehicle passport, the previous owner’s registration certificate, the mandatory motor insurance policy, and the sale contract are required, along with any other documents the authority requests.
Obtaining motor insurance within the ten-day window is essential to drive legally. After this period, securing a policy in the new owner’s name is necessary to stay compliant and protect against penalties for driving without insurance.