Buying and leasing a car: What should you consider when handing over the vehicle?

Buying and leasing a car: What should you consider when handing over the vehicle?

Regardless of whether you are buying or selling a car or otherwise changing the driver – there are numerous situations in which a car has to be handed over. However, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to be legally protected. This applies to private sales as well as to vehicle dealers or leasing partners. This article summarizes the most important points.

Preparation of a checklist

When handing over a vehicle, you should first look at the vehicle from the inside and outside. This includes, for example, taking a look under the hood to assess the condition of the vehicle. Necessary documents should also be checked for completeness. To ensure legal protection for both parties, it is advisable to create a checklist. Particular attention should be paid to the following points:

• Begutachtung des Kfz von außen: Überprüfung des Lacks auf Kratzer; Begutachtung der Stoßstange, Heckklappe, Scheibenwischer und Reifen
• Blick unter die Motorhaube: Überprüfung des Motorraums; Kontrolle von Öl, Scheibenwischeranlage und Zündkerzen
• Begutachtung des Innenraums: Überprüfung von Lenkrad, Armaturenbrett, Handbremse, Warnleuchten und Navigationssystem; Untersuchen des Fußraums auf Nässe
• Durchführen einer Probefahrt: Achten auf Motorgeräusche; Überprüfung der Kupplung

These criteria are checked off by the buyer and seller during the vehicle presentation, which also serves as a protocol. One like this Car handover protocol Ideally, it should be in duplicate and signed by both parties.

Defects in the car must always be recorded in writing. Otherwise, costly repairs could result in a conflict later. The seller undertakes to expressly point out any defects. He must be able to guarantee the advertised condition, as a concealed defect is considered a fraudulent deception. Through documentation, criminal consequences can be avoided.

Vehicle registration document and other documents

In addition to the protocol, other documents such as proof of deregistration from insurance, registration certificates I and II as well as the service booklet and operating instructions must be handed over to the new owner. These must be submitted completely and in the original. By handing over the registration certificate II, better known as the vehicle registration document, the seller assigns his rights to the car.

Handover of used cars

Used cars can be bought and sold privately or through a dealer. It is generally advisable to draw up a purchase contract. In addition to the correct handover and payment by the buyer, the requirements regarding the inspection body must be particularly observed.

A vehicle that has already been deregistered must be parked on private property and may not be moved. Finally, the buyer has to take care of the new license plate if he wants to register the purchased vehicle with the inspection center.

It is easier if the seller's old license plate remains registered and is replaced by a new license plate at the testing center.