We 'bought' a car from a garage during our previsit a couple of wks ago. the car looked good inside n outside (for 5 yr old car) so we agreed to pay a deposit to 'reserve' the car and will pay the balance when our permits, etc are ready. before i pay the deposit, can anyone tell me whether there is a standard list of things that one shd ask from/of a garage or check on when buying 2nd hand cars? he said there is a one yr guarantee from the date of purchase.
many tks for your tips.

Are you absolutely sure your permits will be approved..? If not you stand to loose at the very least your deposit..

Comparis has a good checklist for second-hand cars: http://www.comparis.ch/carfinder/docs/checklist_de.pdf

I know it's an obvious one but make sure all the leaves are attached. I meant all the wheels are attached.

You can have that car checked by experts from the "Touring club suisse" TCS (www.tcs.ch)

If you are a member of TCS (I recommend it ) it's even free if I'm not mistaken.

They do a really good job.

Good luck with your new car

Here are the details:

http://www.tcs.ch/main/de/home/auto_...ml#ANCHOR_0013

Depending on the age of the car, here is my short list:

1. Look in the trunk around the spare tire for water, rusting, etc.
2. look at the underneath of the engine and transmission for oil leaks.
3. check the glass for cracks or hazing.
4. look in the engine bay for rusting, battery terminals, rubber belts and hoses, break lines for corrosion.
5. kms very important
6. service records
7. interior roof liner for water damages (sunroof or moonroof area)
8. does smoke come from the exhaust during the first 30 seconds of starting it - or after that period (white or blue)
9. engine sound OK
10. drive for atleast 15-30 minutes at different speeds and road styles, any funny noises.
11. If any doubt take it to another garage of your choice and pay them for an evaluation. Better Fr. 100 now than 25,000 and find you bought a lemon.