Buying a Used Car in Switzerland: How to Find Your Perfect Vehicle

A new car isn’t just expensive—it also depreciates dramatically in the first few years. That’s why it’s smart to choose a used car instead. But buying a used car requires some caution—CARIFY has gathered all the information you need.

Why Buy a Used Car in Switzerland?

Not everyone can afford a new car, and sustainability also plays a role in the decision. Let’s look at the benefits:

Benefits of Used Cars

• Price: Used cars are cheaper to buy.

• Depreciation: Vehicle value drops significantly in the first two years after registration, but the curve flattens out after that.

• Operating Costs: Depending on the car’s age, you may not need comprehensive insurance or can benefit from lower insurance rates, as these are based on the car’s value.

• Flexibility: Instead of committing to a car for years, you can switch used cars more frequently to meet your mobility needs.

• Resources: Reusing used cars reduces the demand for new vehicles and conserves valuable resources.

Important Factors When Buying a Used Car

You can buy a used car either from a dealer or a private seller, which broadens your options. Dealers often offer financing options—helpful if you’re low on funds. However, comparing prices can be tricky. Whether a used car is a bargain or overpriced depends heavily on the car’s condition and mileage, in addition to its features. Hidden issues that you discover too late can spoil your dream car. Factors like fuel consumption and emissions are also important, as some cars may not be permitted in low-emission zones.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Car in Switzerland

Our guide can help you avoid common issues when buying a used car. Here’s what to focus on!

Condition and History of the Vehicle

Dull paint, foggy headlights, and a musty smell from the interior are red flags. Sellers know this, so they may use cosmetic tricks to enhance the car’s appearance. Don’t be fooled by the shine—examine the car from all angles for rust, ideally even the underbody. A well-maintained service booklet is always a good sign from the seller.

Mileage and Usage

Even if a car is only a few years old, the engine could already be nearing its end—especially if previous owners were frequent or long-distance drivers. That’s why checking the mileage is essential when buying a used car. The higher the mileage, the greater the chance that parts may need replacement soon.

Checking for Accident Damage and Defects

Buying a car that’s been in an accident poses a risk, as repairs may have been done poorly, leaving hidden issues that could be dangerous in another collision. To be safe, consider having it inspected at a professional garage before purchase.

Where to Buy Your Used Car in Switzerland

Whether buying from a dealer or a private individual, each option has pros and cons.

Private Sale – Pros and Cons

• Price Negotiation: Private sellers may have less expertise and offer more room for negotiation.

• Direct Contact: Communication is more direct, allowing for a transparent transaction.

• No Dealer Fees: Private sales avoid dealer fees.

• Legal Uncertainty: Sales are often “as-is” with no warranty.

• Technical Uncertainty: Buyers rely on the seller’s claims about the car’s condition.

• Time Investment: You may need to schedule multiple viewings, which takes time.

Dealer Sale – Pros and Cons

• Warranty: Dealers often offer warranties.

• Technical Condition: Dealers typically inspect and repair cars before sale.

• Financing: Dealers may offer financing options.

• Service and Support: Dealers assist with registration and other administrative tasks.

• Higher Prices: Dealer fees increase the sale price.

• Less Room for Negotiation: Prices are often fixed.

• Hidden Fees: Additional fees may increase the final cost.

CARIFY: A Safe Way to Buy a Used Car

CARIFY’s used cars are always well-maintained and in excellent technical condition. You can enjoy lower prices without dealer fees.

Price Comparison and Financing Options for Used Cars

Is it a bargain or a rip-off? It can be hard to tell. If financing is offered, what fees and interest rates are involved? Here are some tips:

Assessing Market Prices

Comparing prices is essential, though challenging when buying used cars due to factors like features, condition, and mileage. Online car marketplaces with filter functions can help approximate values and gauge prices from dealers or private sellers.

Financing Options and Leasing

Financing doesn’t have to go through a dealer; some car loan providers or banks offer loans. A loan calculator can help estimate monthly payments. Another option is leasing a used car, which also involves monthly payments and requires insurance to protect the lender.

CARIFY’s “Try and Buy”: The Best Choice for a Secure Purchase

Used car shopping can be risky, especially if you overpay or discover rust issues after buying. CARIFY’s Try and Buy model lets you test a car flexibly and without risk.

Benefits of the “Try and Buy” Model

With CARIFY’s “Try and Buy” model, you enjoy multiple benefits at once:

• Wide selection of nearly new used cars

• Excellent technical condition

• Prices below retail

• Simple purchasing process

• Test drive for up to six months

• Registration, sticker, and fuel included for only 250 CHF

How “Try and Buy” Works

Sign up on CARIFY and browse through our new and used car listings. Choose the Try and Buy package, selecting a test period (1, 3, or 6 months). You also choose the mileage package and insurance option. You’ll immediately see the monthly rate. During the test period, you only pay the car’s usual monthly subscription rate.

After testing, decide to buy, lease, or return the car. If you buy, we’ll refund your subscription fees, excluding insurance costs. You’ll only pay 250 CHF for registration, the sticker, and a full tank of gas upon transfer.

If leasing, future payments are based on a discounted partner price. If the car isn’t right for you, simply cancel the subscription 14 days before the test period ends.

Conclusion

Buying used cars has its perks but also risks. CARIFY ensures you get a well-maintained, technically sound vehicle at an affordable price. You can test the car for 1, 3, or 6 months before committing, allowing you to make a well-informed decision.

FAQs

What should I keep in mind when buying a used car in Switzerland?

1. Set a budget.

2. Compare similar models.

3. Check vehicle history.

4. Inspect the car’s condition.

5. Take a test drive.

6. Check technical status.

7. Review all necessary documents.

8. Carefully read the contract for warranties and return policies.

How does CARIFY’s “Try and Buy” model work?

1. Register with CARIFY

2. Find your desired car

3. Configure the “Try and Buy” subscription

4. Test drive

5. After the test, choose to buy, lease, or return.

What are the advantages of a used car?

• With a used car, you are opting for a car with a considerably lower purchase price than a new car.

• In particular, this reduces the depreciation of your purchase, which is most dramatic in the first few years.

• Depending on the age of the vehicle, you may not need comprehensive insurance . The premium amount is based on the value of the vehicle, so you also save here.

• Sustainability considerations also play a role when buying a second-hand car. Many valuable resources go into the manufacture of cars, so it is advantageous to use them for as long as possible.