Car Buying Checklist for Pakistan
Before you start looking
Set a hard budget ceiling and include registration, transfer and the first service. Shop 10–15% under the ceiling so those first-month costs do not push you past it. Decide the body type and use case honestly, based on how you actually drive, not the aspirational version.
Shortlisting
Check the realistic price range for each candidate. Prefer models with cheap, available parts and a solid reliability reputation. Filter listings by city so you are not planning long trips for a first look.
At the viewing
Daylight inspection of panel gaps, paint match and tyre wear. Check the interior, the boot floor and the engine bay. Cold-start the engine yourself. Ask directly about accident history and the reason for selling.
Before committing
Independent mechanic inspection. Odometer cross-checked against service records. Test drive on different road types. If a seller blocks the inspection or rushes you, walk away.
The paperwork
Original registration book, chain of transfer documents, CNIC of the seller, and confirmation of no outstanding token or dues. Agree the transfer process and timeline in writing before any money changes hands.
After the purchase
Complete the transfer promptly, get insurance in place, and do the first service so you have a baseline for the car's condition going forward.
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