Buying a used car in Egypt: inspection and paperwork

Buying a used car is a big decision, and a small mistake in the inspection or paperwork can cost you a lot later. This guide collects the key points to cover before you pay, and it applies to motorcycles and tuk-tuks too.

1. Set your budget and pick the right model

Do not budget for the price alone. Include ownership transfer, insurance, a first service (oil, filters, brake pads) and any repair the inspection reveals. Choose a model whose spare parts are easy to find and reasonably priced; it makes a big difference over the years.

2. Outside: paint and chassis

• Look at the car in daylight. A shade difference between panels, or traces of filler, means that panel was repainted.
• Ask the seller exactly which parts were repainted and why. Ideally inspect at a centre with a paint-thickness gauge.
• Check the chassis rails under the bonnet and in the boot. Welding or modifications there usually mean a serious accident.
• Check the tyres (the production date is printed on them) and their wear. Uneven wear can point to alignment or suspension problems.

3. Engine, gearbox and suspension

• Start the car from cold. Blue smoke can mean the engine burns oil; heavy white smoke can mean a cooling problem.
• Listen to the engine and watch the gauges and warning lights.
• Automatic gear changes should be smooth with no jerks or delays. On a manual, test the clutch.
• Take a test drive with bumps, hard braking and turns, and listen for knocks from the suspension.
• Best of all, have a mechanic you trust or an inspection centre check the car before you agree.

4. Paperwork: the most important step

• Make sure the chassis and engine numbers on the car match the licence.
• Make sure the seller is the owner named on the licence, or holds a valid official power of attorney that allows the sale.
• Ask about traffic fines and check them before buying, because they can follow the car.
• Confirm the car has no sale ban or bank lien (common with cars bought on instalments).

5. Ownership transfer and payment

The safest route is an official ownership transfer at the traffic unit, or a notarised contract. A power of attorney alone is less safe for both sides because the car stays in the old owner's name. Do not pay the full amount in cash before the paperwork is done, and prefer a traceable payment such as a bank transfer or cheque.

6. Warning signs

• A price far below the market for the same model and year.
• A seller in a hurry who refuses a mechanic's inspection or an official transfer.
• Very low mileage with obvious wear on the pedals, steering wheel and seats.
• A request for an online deposit before you see the car.

This is general advice. For legal details, ask the traffic unit or a lawyer before signing.