Buying a used car in Kuwait: seven checks before you pay

A used car can save you thousands of dinars, as long as you know what you are buying.

1. Check the history. Ask for the service records and confirm the car has no outstanding traffic fines or loans attached to it.

1. Inspect it in daylight. Uneven paint and gaps between panels are signs of earlier accident repairs.

1. Test the air conditioning. Run it for at least fifteen minutes. A weak system is an expensive fix and a miserable summer.

1. Look at the tyres. Heat ages rubber quickly, so check the manufacturing date as well as the tread.

1. Take a proper drive. Include a stretch of highway and listen for noises when braking.

1. Get an independent inspection. A garage you trust will spot what you cannot.

1. Transfer ownership properly. Complete the transfer through the official channels before you hand over the full amount.