There are online marketplaces for selling used cars with Taladrod.com and One2car being the two biggest. Although both sites have numerous listings from car agencies, you may still be able to find a good car from a private seller that is cheaper.
You can often separate between car agencies and private listings by:
- If a car is too clean, without any decoration inside the car (eg. flowers, Buddha statue, dolls), it’s from agencies
- If a car is parking in the same place as other listing, it’s from agencies
- If the registration plate is empty without registration number, it’s from agencies
Of course, there are also good cars from agencies. Whenever you find a good deal, call and ask for details immediately. If you cannot speak Thai, ask your Thai friend to help. Usually a good deal only lasts no longer than a day or two.
Facebook Marketplace is also another good website to search for a used car in your area.
When buying used cars from online sites, here’s what you should do:
- Have your payment method ready, but make sure you understand whether VAT is included. Dealers that are registered for VAT may include or charge 7% VAT, while private sellers usually are not VAT-registered for a one-off personal sale. Paying in cash does not legally exempt you from VAT if VAT applies.
- Always inspect the car in person. Do not make a deposit through wire transfer in advance. There are lots of scammers on these websites.
- Bring someone who knows the car well with you during an inspection. And always run a test drive. If you want to hire a professional, check out Gooinspection. They charge around THB1,500 to THB3,000 per inspection.
- Avoid a car that looks too clean on the outside, inside, and inside the engine room. It might’ve just had a big accident before. The best deal is one that the owner regularly uses. Scratches and dust are normal.
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