6 Most Common Mistakes When Buying a Used Car in Belgium (and How to Avoid Them)

Introduction

Buying a used car in Belgium can be a smart move, but only if you know what you’re doing. These are the 6 mistakes buyers make most often and regret later.

1. Not checking the Car-Pass

In Belgium, the Car-Pass is legally required. Without it, the risk of mileage fraud is high.

Solution: never buy a car without the original Car-Pass.

2. A price that is too good to be true

If the price is far below market value, there is usually a reason.

Solution: always compare prices with similar vehicles.

3. Relying only on the technical inspection

A valid technical inspection does not mean the car is in perfect condition.

Always check:

• oil leaks

• abnormal engine noises

• smoke from the exhaust

4. Skipping the test drive

Without a test drive, you are buying blind.

Always test the car:

• in the city

• on the highway

• with firm braking

5. Unclear or incomplete documents

Missing or unclear documents can lead to legal and financial problems.

Check:

• registration certificate

• service history

• chassis number (VIN)

6. Paying in advance without seeing the car

This is one of the most common online scams.

No serious seller asks for a deposit without a meeting and a clear agreement.