Buying a Used Car? Lawyer Warns Against Costly Mistakes

Purchasing a used car always carries risks, but a Lithuanian lawyer is highlighting critical errors that buyers should avoid to prevent future financial headaches. According to lawyer N. Jašmontas, the biggest mistake is relying solely on the seller's narrative rather than verifying information through official documents and thorough inspections.

Jašmontas emphasizes the importance of a clear purchase-sale agreement or equivalent document. This contract should precisely detail the seller, buyer, vehicle identification number (VIN), mileage, the actual price paid, payment method, any known defects, previous accidents, and the circumstances of the vehicle's handover. Crucially, buyers must also preserve advertisements, proof of payment, correspondence with the seller, and service diagnostic reports, as these can serve as vital evidence of the car's condition at the time of sale.

A guiding principle for buyers, Jašmontas advises, is that the money, the car, and the contract must align. The individual receiving payment should be the same person listed as the seller. The car must be accurately identified by its VIN, the price must be genuine, and any disclosed defects should be recorded in writing. Sellers who suggest shortcuts or unconventional methods often shift the risk onto the buyer.

Buyers should never sign incomplete contracts or agree to a lower price being listed than what is actually paid. Misrepresenting the price in the contract can complicate efforts to recover funds if a dispute arises. For instance, if €12,000 was paid but only €7,000 is documented, proving the actual amount owed becomes significantly harder. The lawyer also clarified that not every post-purchase malfunction constitutes a "hidden defect." A used car's condition is assessed based on its age, mileage, price, and history. A major engine or transmission issue, if its cause predates the sale, might be considered a hidden defect, whereas normal wear and tear on items like brake pads or batteries after several months would not.