The reality behind selling/buying Used Car - Online vs Offline

Modern day advertising and marketing have become an easy and simple procedure for anyone to sell their car. Selling anything which has been used or even brand new is now just a few clicks away from reaching potential customers. Cars are the next big item after real estate which is being held for sale in many online and offline selling platforms. It may sound beneficial for selling your car privately but there can be a number of scams. A large number of cars which are used or brand new are put up for sale in a very attractive manner with images of the car. As we know everything has a good side and also a bad side.

When starting to speak about the advantages of selling your car online, let’s talk about the obvious facts that there is no extra or any additional cost you have to bear when putting up an item for sale online. So online selling is absolutely free but there might be a minor amount at some point in time. It is the most cost-effective mode of promotion.

Through selling your car online, you are able to reach a bigger capacity of people which means in other words that, you get a wider exposure to your car in comparison to the offline market. This would allow many people of all ages and interest to come across your car and purchase it or even spread the message around. And by posting it on more than 1 website will indeed expand your number of viewers in comparison to the offline market where you will find a limited number of interested buyers or sellers.

Selling your car online is simple and convenient as it could be easily done through an electronic device such as your mobile phone, tablet or even your computer whereas offline buying or selling is not that comfortable as you are not able to get all the necessary information in the comfort of your home. The online market makes it easy for sellers and buyers to sell pre-owned car online.

Selling used car online could also be a risky practice in comparison to offline as it helps us to not get caught up in any fraud or scam. Selling a used car in India can be a tricky process as there is a number of ways to sell but to get the best price brings us in a dilemma where to sell.

To sell pre-owned car online can lead to an invitation to scammers. Therefore, avoid disclosing personal information like address or workplace. It might put you in trouble which you never expected. And in this situation can be said for the methods as you get in touch with different prospective buyers or sellers.

Gaining customer trust is a risky thing as the customer you meet is a total stranger to you at the beginning while you are selling/buying a used car. Therefore, you might not know any information or even past activities of the buyer/seller. There would also be an interrelationship of doubt in trust between both parties which is the buyer and seller. The seller may find it hard to trust the buyer and the buyer will also be in doubt about the seller wondering whether it’s a genuine product or not.

An investment of time, and maybe even a bit of money, is necessary to get the process rolling, both of which can be tagged as disadvantages. In addition, once you advertise your car for sale, time and money are still a factor, all the way up until you close the deal and hand over the keys to the new owner, which is when you can hopefully realize the fruits of your labor.

The amount of legwork you will have to do is considerably more when you are selling your car offline in comparison to offline. For example, you will have to spend time cleaning the car inside and out to make it more appealing to interested buyers.

After you've invested all your time into talking to an interested buyer via phone or email, setting up a meeting and showing the car, the buyer may say he wants to buy the car from you. While that's definitely an advantage, you may have to negotiate, which can be a disadvantage as there is a fluctuation in price in selling the used car but when you visit an online site for these services you will get a fixed price to sell pre-owned car online.

If you've ever tried to trade in a vehicle at a car dealership, you probably know that the results are often less than desirable. However, if you put in the time and effort to sell pre-owned car offline, it's possible to make a profit or at least break even, which is an advantage. For example, if your car is paid for, you can usually sell it for more than a dealer would give you. According to information on the Consumer Reports website, you can always expect to get more than the wholesale price. Even if you owe money on the car, you still may be able to make a profit after a private sale or at least make enough to pay off the car, which is definitely in your favor.

Top 7 Best-Selling Sedan Car in India till 2018

We have just crossed 2018 and it has been rather an unruly year for the Indian automobile industry. With variations in exchange rates, insurance premiums and other policies, car sales have seen their share of ups and downs throughout the year. In fact, sedans have always been ideal among buyers who need a relaxed driving experience. These highest selling sedans are further categorized into subcompact, compact, mid-size, executive, etc. It arises a substantial quantity of sales in the Indian automobile market. Here, we have listed India’s highest selling sedans in India. With the year 2018 being over, let's have a look at the best-selling cars of 2018.

Maruti Suzuki Dzire

Maruti Suzuki Dzire is the top-selling sedan in India as recently, Dzire crossed 3 lakh sales milestones in the country.  The company announced that over 25% of customers have opted top-spec variants and around 20% have chosen the automatic versions. Dzire became an overnight hit in the market after its launch. The all-new Dzire become way better than its predecessor and offers improved looks, performance, and mileage. This compact sedan is India’s most fuel-efficient car, thanks to its new lighter body. Maruti offers features like LED projector headlamps, touchscreen infotainment system and AMT option with both petrol and diesel engine, making Dzire a popular choice.

Honda City

Honda City has been the king of the segment for a long time now making it one of the top selling sedans in the country. The premium brand attracts a lot of customers due to its reputation and technological advancement. Apart from that, the petrol engine of Honda City is known to be quite economical and is preferred by the majority of prospective buyers. Honda City comes loaded with high-end features like full-LED headlamps, sunroof, Honda digipad and an impeccable styling that makes it popular among the customers.

Honda Amaze

Honda Amaze looks identical to its elder sibling, Honda City. Unveiled at the Auto Expo 2018, the all-new Amaze have gone through a major face lift. The car carries a look which doesn’t suit everyone’s perceptions but offers a nice leg room. The new Amaze also offers a CVT gearbox option and a touchscreen infotainment system for the first time. In fact, it is the only diesel CVT on the market today making it one of the highest selling sedans across the nation.

Maruti Ciaz

Ciaz came as a replacement to the SX4, sold exclusively through Maruti Suzuki’s Nexa dealerships, Ciaz is the only full-size sedan currently sold by the brand. Ciaz is also available in diesel hybrid variant with torque assist function, which helps the diesel engine give good mileage with better performance; not to mention making Ciaz one the car which is worth every penny, thus making it one of the best sedans in India.

Hyundai Verna

The C-segment sedan looks great from every angle, especially from the rear quarter. Verna is majorly preferred by young families and is also awarded ‘Indian Car of The Year 2018’ hence making Verna one of the highest selling sedans. Hyundai sedan comes loaded with various features and is also available in petrol and diesel engine variant.

Skoda Rapid

Rapid is one of the best-selling sedan cars in India from the Czech brand. In the not-so-distant past, Skoda India sales were plummeting down. Due to heavy losses, the company brought updates to their lineup; one of which is was Skoda Rapid. Rapid is grounded on the Volkswagen Vento and shares similar body panels. Being comparable to the Volkswagen Vento, the Skoda Rapid showcases the best of German engineering and creativity at an affordable price.

Toyota Yaris

Finally, we come down to our last sedan which was one of the best selling sedans across the nation for the year 2018, Toyota Yaris. It’s the Japanese brand’s first C-segment sedan in India and offers first-in-segment features. Yaris comes only in petrol variant and is available as a 6-speed manual or a 7-step CVT, Yaris also comes along with seven airbags. The cabin offers lots of space and the overall looks are in line with Toyota’s global design parameters. Driving Yaris is a breeze, thanks to the low levels NVH and excellent suspension tuning making it one of the top-selling sedans across the nation.

5 benefits for selling old car on OLX Cash My Car

Lately,  Cash My Car become a common topic of conversation when it comes to selling old car. Enabling consumers to sell their pre-owned cars by providing hassle-free service. No wonder we are all buying new cars as disposing of our used car has become a breeze. If you are still thinking about what makes this brand an obvious choice for so many of us, here are 5 reasons why we think the same -

• The Fastest way to Sell a Car

It might not sound true, but Cash My Car makes it possible for a customer to sell his Pre-owned car in a single day. Hypothetically,  you decide to sell your used car on a working day but we make this possible within 2 hours only and you are not only able to sell but also get instant payment on the same day. hence there is no need to visit various used car dealers, meet strangers, get stuck into negotiations or lose sleep over documentation. At OLX Cash My Car, all it takes is a single visit to a branch where you get your car evaluated & then offered a price. If you accept the offer, you can sell your car and get instant payment in your account. We are in 21st century, where time is precious, selling a used car in a single visit is a luxury that we provide.

• Free RC Transfers and Instant Payments

There is hassle-free documentation including RC transfer because we do it for you. Most of us can relate to experiences where the dealer or the buyer casually wash his hands from the required paperwork which leaves the seller in a predicament. Cash My Car solves this by ensuring free RC transfer which enables the seller to be free of any worry.

• Provides the best Price for the Car

Cash My Car ensures that the consumer gets the best price by selling a used car. Thus a customer no longer has to go through a stressful process of negotiating the price. A customer can sit back & relax at the Cash My Car branch and get the high resale value for used cars.

• Say goodbye to paperwork problems

We aren’t just talking about free RC transfer as well as loan closures, and other formalities which are like a thorn in the eyes of the seller. Due to Cash My Car, you do not need to run from office to office. Instead, you can just hand over all the documents to our representatives and the experts will take care of the rest. As we said, you can walk into a Cash My Car branch with your car & come out with the best price transferred in your bank account with all the paper formalities completed.

• Genuine Brand and Trustworthy Service

Whenever we want to sell anything, be it furniture or car, the first name that ever came to our minds was OLX. now OLX has come up with its innovative idea for selling used cars with its brand name and trustworthiness, and it’s Cash My Car to provide you with a service which you do not have to second guess.

Having completely won over the consumers with its professionalism & customer experience, it’s not a surprise that Cash My Car is becoming the market leader in the used car industry.

So, book an appointment at Cash My Car today.

Anti-Lock Braking System - Pros And Cons

An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is a safety anti-skid braking system. It helps the driver to maintain steering ability and avoid skidding while braking. The concept was introduced in the mid -1980s and has become "standard" safety device installed in almost all the new cars. Similar to traction control, ABS helps in exerting control over tires on muddy and slippery paths. It is likely that a vehicle may spin or even crash in absence of ABS. However, anti-lock braking system too bears some pros and cons that need to be considered before buying a car.

To help you get better clarity of the feature, OLX Cash My Car would like to point out the pros and cons of anti-lock braking system. These are:

Pros or Advantages of Anti-lock Braking system

The main benefits of ABS include:

• Anti-slippery

An Anti-braking system prevents lock-ups, skidding and surefooted braking over the slippery roads. They are known for saving lives of many people. Also, in many situations the system has helped drivers keep control of a vehicle and steer out of potentially dangerous scenario.

• Lower insurance cost

Cars with ABS technology can keep insurance payment down. This is because the system is tested for safety and avoiding accidents. Thus, most of the insurance providers give discounts on insurance of vehicles with ABS.

• Higher resale value

ABS technology adds to the value of the vehicle it is installed in. The system is known for raising not only the safety standards but also its reliability and assurance of safer ride. Therefore, cars with ABS bear better resale value.

• Traction control 

An ABS shares some infrastructure of a traction control system. And the new technology ensures that each wheel has traction on the road. Thus, it becomes easier for the manufacturer to install traction control in the factory itself.

Cons or disadvantages of Anti-lock Braking system

Despite the fact the ABS is proven to be a safety feature in most situations, not all the drivers are sold on this option. Here are some down sides of this brake system:

• Inconsistency in stop time

It is proved that Anti-lock braking system is made to provide safer braking in slippery conditions. However, some drivers have reported that there is inconsistency in stopping distances for regular conditions as they are lengthened either because of errors in the system or of clunking or noise of the system.

• Extra expense to maintain

Despite the fact that ABS is known for its excellent features, the system can be expensive in terms of its maintenance. A slight error in the sensors can cost you a fortune to fix. If the system get out of calibration or may develop some other problem, it can cost a lot. In such a case many people prefer buying a new car than getting the problem fixed.

• Delicate system

The electronic system in ABS is quite delicate. Messing around with the brakes can lead to disorientation of the ABS and may also damage the system.

These are few pros and cons of Anti-lock braking system. With the increasing focus on safety features many countries are making ABS compulsory for the vehicles.

How to Check an Engine before Buying a Used Car

We all know that the used cars market is gaining its strength day by day. While selling a used car, a seller needs to check the car precisely before selling so that it can be valued properly and also there is clarity of future repair cost for the car. The most important thing that every buyer should look for is the condition of the engine, as it is most expensive to repair. It is really important to get the mechanical condition checked by a qualified mechanic as it cannot be identified during a test drive.

Here are few tips on how to spot engine problems or lack of maintenance while checking a used car:

• Check service record

Although it is not always possible to get service record but if you can manage to get it from the seller it will be great. Once you get access to the service record look for oil changes and mileage records. It is always good to get information about maintenance of the car.

• Have a look under the hood and notice for any smells from the engine

Here you look for the leaks, smell of burnt oil or antifreeze, signs of poor quality repairs or lack of maintenance, as well as 'racing' modifications. An engine shampooed just before the showcase may have some problems, although not always. Thus, you need to check everything inside properly.

• Visible oil leaks

Oil leaks may not be visible from the above. Thus, look from underneath and take a photo or a video with your phone to check the lower part of the engine and transmission. Everything should be dry. 

• Coolant and other leaks

A cracked radiator with coolant leak calls for a serious problem. Used cars with such problem should be avoided.

• Check for the color and level of oil

To check the oil, it is important to put the engine off. If you do not know how to check engine oil you need not worry. The Owner’s manual directs you on how to check the oil. Low level of the oil indicates either the engine consumes oil or it has been long since the last oil change. Normally the level should be close to ‘Full’ mark and should not be mixed with coolant. Avoid a car if such is the case. 

• Check for the timing belts and hoses 

Not all cars have timing belt. There are some that have a timing chain instead. In most of the cars timing belt needs to be changed between 6000 to 100000 miles. Since the cost to change the belt is really high it becomes important to check the condition before making a deal. So, ask your mechanic to check it thoroughly as it is under the cover which needs to be removed.

• Take a test drive and notice for any noise

Once you start the car all the warning lights should be off. If lights for the engine check or may be for some other fault stays on, get the car diagnosed. During test drive watch out for a few things like: engine noise, vibration, lack of power, or any other drive-ability issues. While driving the engine should be stable and smooth. Consider a long test drive to check for faults as short drive may not show all the faults. Always get the car checked by a qualified mechanic even if you find it OK.  

OLX introduces the most convenient way to sell used car online in just 3 easy & quick steps along with the fairest price in India. Explore the best price for selling you pre-owned car at OLX Cash My Car now.

10 Tips & Tricks to Avoid Car Theft

In case you have not known every 13 minutes a car is stolen in India. Few of the news reports state that approximately over One Lakh of cars were stolen in the year 2016 which has not decreased since then. One should realize that it can happen to anyone anywhere but, sadly the realization of protecting car with anti-theft circumstances comes once the incident has taken place. Therefore, its required to equip yourself and your car with amenities which would safeguard both of you from such mishaps. While everyone tries to do their best but some of the practices are known to be the most effective in such cases hence its advisable to turn into application right away.

Here is how you can prepare yourself and your car to avoid car theft:

#1 Always park in a safe place

With cities getting cramped more than ever not everyone has a designated car parking place or a garage. In most of the places one needs to park the car in an open space but still, you need to figure out the whereabouts of the location. The parking place should be close to your residential area as well as should have a guard in charge during day and night time. Do not ignore the times when you are visiting someone else’s place for a longer time you need to make sure to ask for a secure area to park. If possible park under the streetlights as during night also it will be a lit area and chances of theft taking at such spots are minimal.

#2 Invest in Anti-theft system

While buying the car you should always get it ready with anti-theft devices. These are like long term investments and shouldn’t be postponed. Devices like a car alarm, GPS Tracking system, Car Immobilizer and central locking are some of the equipment’s which will help you to have sound sleep.

#3 Valuables’ place is at home and not in the car

Valuables like a laptop, expensive phones, any type of paper which are related to car or assets, bags or briefcases, wallets or purses should never be lying in the car. These items end up making your car lucrative enough for various reasons to be stolen. Do not forget to take all the belongings while leaving the car.

#4 Keys and its whereabouts

Keep your keys always in safe places which are easy to remember. Almost all cars come with auto-block because of which many a time we do not check if the car is locked while leaving in the parking space whereas it slips our mind that auto lock might not be working. Thus, making the car vulnerable.

#5 Know why certain car types are stolen

Certain types of cars are stolen for specific purposes. For example, bigger cars are difficult to be easily driven out of the city hence, they might fall at the bottom of list whereas smalls cars or vans are easy to break will be preyed upon at the first go. Vehicles which are generally used for commercial purposes can also be one of the most targeted ones.

#6 Mark your car

Marking your car or leaving an etch on it is like a birthmark. It helps to identify your car easily and also keeps the thieves at bay because of the fear of recovery.

#7 Steering Locks

Steering locks made with heavy metals play an important role in anti-theft systems as they particularly to be broken through. Hence, it always advisable to keep the car’s steering locked.

#8 Drive your car enough

Cars which are on standstill become the most available target, therefore, it's important for the cars to be driven around. With one spot and no movement of the car makes it suspicious for the thieves to make them believe that the owner is not attentive.

#9 Track with technology

Keep your car GPS enabled from the Day 1 of the purchase. There are tech-powered GPS systems which empowers you to follow the direction of cars like the ones which are used for ATM cars while delivering cash.

It's important to keep your car safe because in the long term even if you have recovered your car after theft it might hit your valuation while selling it.

#10 Say it Loud

Make sure to put a sticker on the back and front of the car which says, “My Car is Protected”. It surely helps keeping the thieves away from thoughts of touching your car. More so makes the car looks like a tough job to break in comparison to others. 

OLX introduces Cash My Car along with FCG (Frontier Car Group) to provide the most lucrative experience for selling used car online in India by opening 50+ offline stores among various cities in India.