Buying a used car or vehicle in Thailand

This article begins with the usual disclaimer that laws in Thailand can change on a day to day basis and like every thing else here, depends where you go, who you see and what day of the week. The information provided is based on a consensus of personal experience.

Before you buy have it clear in your mind what type of vehicle you want, and the price range. Trucks hold their value better than other vehicles. Understand that cars maintain their value much better than you are used to in your home country. Know that Thais are generally hard on cars and typically maintain them poorly, so consider a new car if you can afford it, and use extra care in checking for mechanical damage before you buy a pre-owned vehicle.

Get an experienced technician to check for problems before you buy.

Look for signs of Collision: Paint overspray on glass, rubber or trim, wrinkled metal under the hood, misaligned bumpers, doors, hood and other body panels.

Check the Engine: Have someone start the engine while you look at the exhaust pipe. A little black smoke on start up is OK, but blue smoke indicates burning oil - don't buy it! Check the engine runs smoothly and idles quietly.

Check the Mileage: Look for excessive wear on the clutch, brake and accelerator pedals. Also on the driver's side door hinges. High wear in any of these areas may indicate high mileage in excess of what the odometer is showing.

Title and Registration: Check the book that comes with the car.

No Book? Then just run very fast to the next dealership.

Compare the chassis number in the book with the chassis number on the vehicle.

To own and register a car you will need:

A non immigrant visa

Proof of residency - rental agreement or home ownership papers Money!

Once you have checked all of the above yourself, have the car inspected by an independent mechanic, someone not associated with the selling party. Tell the seller you want this inspection done before you buy or commit to buy. Expect small repairs but do not buy someone else's expensive problems. Buy from a well established dealer. That way, if you have a problem the chances are that it will be taken care of quickly.

If you have updated information or anything you would like to add to this article, please contact Cars4Thais.com and thanks for helping us provide the best information available on the web!