The UAE is a heaven for all things luxury, including luxury cars. The pre-owned luxury car market has surged in recent years, making top brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, and Porsche easily accessible at competitive prices.
However, buying a pre-owned luxury car is not as simple as spotting your dream car and driving away. Unlike regular vehicles, luxury cars require specialized maintenance due to their advanced features and complex systems, resulting in higher maintenance costs.
This article breaks down important aspects to check before purchasing a pre-owned luxury car in the U.A.E.
Physical Inspection
Let’s start with the basics. A luxury car may look flawless on the outside, but hidden issues can lead to expensive repairs later on. The following must be carefully inspected:
- Inspect all car panels for dents, scratches, rust, or mismatched paint. These may indicate previous accidents.
- Examine the cabin thoroughly for any signs of excessive wear, tear or fading of the upholstery.
- Test the infotainment system, including Bluetooth, navigation, physical buttons and the touch-screen for proper operation.
- All modern cars are equipped with airbags and safety systems. When starting the car, the airbag light indicator should turn on briefly and then turn off.
- Turn on the headlights, fog lights, brake lights, and indicators. Inoperative lights may indicate electrical issues.
- Turn on the AC for about 10 minutes at a maximum and test its cooling.
- All the tires must be evenly worn. Uneven tire wear may indicate steering, suspension issues or mis-alignment.
Test drive the car on various road conditions. Pay close attention to the engine’s responsiveness at highway speeds, brake pedal firmness, steering pull, vibration and any suspension noises over bumps.
Market Value Evaluation
Luxury cars are considerable financial investments. Check the average market price of the car for the specific model and year to ensure you are getting a reasonable value. Additionally, check for modifications and unique features. These little details can impact the price of the vehicle positively or negatively.
Warranty and Service Contracts
Many luxury cars are covered under service contracts, especially if they are relatively new, especially if it’s relatively new. Always ask the seller about existing service packs and warranties, as this may save you significant costs in the future.
Vehicle Verification
All vehicles in the UAE are registered and tracked for its accident, ownership and mileage history., owners, and mileage records. A verification report, will usually include:
- Accident history
- Ownership history
- Theft status
- Salvage status
- Service history
- Inspection history
You will need the vehicle’s chassis or VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). The VIN can be found:
- Near the windshield
- Driver’s side door-frame
- Engine bay firewall
- Car’s official documents
Always ensure the VIN matches the one on the registration card. This ensures any future ownership conflicts.
Ways to Check for Vehicle History
You can verify the vehicle history using the VIN on the following platforms:
Ministry of Interior (MOI)
- Visit the MOI portal: Ministry of Interior MOI – Accidents Inquiry
- Enter the chassis (VIN) number.
- Click ‘Submit’.
This is the most in-depth way to check accident records / history across the U.A.E.
Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG)
- Visit the EVG site (http://evg.ae/)
- Go to Traffic Accidents Management.
- Enter the VIN to view the report.
The EVG is applicable to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, but not Dubai.
Dubai Vehicle Verification
For Dubai-registered cars, verification is to be done through the RTA.
- Visit http://rta.ae/ or use the RTA app.
- Log in using your UAE Pass
- Navigate to the ‘Driver and Car Owner’ section
- Click ‘Vehicle Licensing’ and then ‘Apply for Technical Vehicle Status Certificate.’
- Enter the VIN and complete the payment.
- The report will be emailed to you within 10 minutes.
Dealer or Seller Verification
The credibility of the dealer or seller is just as important as the car itself. Buying from an authorized dealer or reputable re-seller ensures authentic documentation, reducing the risk of misconduct and future issues.
Advance Auto’s Car Inspection Services
Advance Auto offers premium luxury cars maintenance and repair services, backed by 30+ years of combined experience. We specialize in German, Asian, and high-end luxury brands, including Porsche, Lamborghini, Maserati, Rolls-Royce, and Bentley.
Our detailed car inspection service utilizes state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to assess the car’s mechanical, electrical and structural integrity ensuring transparency before your purchase.
Final Thoughts
Owning a luxury car is more than just driving, it’s about enjoying craftsmanship, comfort, and performance every time you’re behind the wheel. Buying a pre-owned one in Dubai can be just as rewarding, as long as you take the time to do it right.
Research the market carefully, review the car’s history in detail, and always have it inspected by experienced professionals like Advance Auto before you commit.
That bit of care and patience goes a long way, giving you the confidence to enjoy your dream car exactly the way it was meant to be enjoyed, without unwanted surprises later.
About the Author
Arun Kumar is a seasoned Automotive Advisor and Consultant with over a decade of experience serving discerning drivers in Dubai. Known for his expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence, he provides bespoke advice and personalized automotive solutions tailored to the highest standards of car care and maintenance.
