Quick answer: To verify a used car’s condition before buying in Saudi Arabia, follow 7 steps: 1. Request an independent inspection from a neutral center (SAR 200-500). 2. Check accident history via Najm. 3. Check violations via Absher. 4. Verify odometer matches the car’s age and service records. 5. Confirm valid registration and insurance. 6. Request a test drive (minimum 15 minutes). 7. Verify the chassis number (VIN) matches paperwork. Or simply: buy from Carly which handles all of this for you (150-point inspection + 12-month warranty + 7-day return).
Last updated: May 2026
What’s Inside This Guide
- Step 1: Independent inspection (most important)
- Step 2: Accident history via Najm
- Step 3: Violations via Absher
- Step 4: Odometer check
- Step 5: Registration and insurance
- Step 6: Test drive
- Step 7: Chassis number (VIN)
- The easier alternative: Carly inspects for you
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Step 1: Independent Inspection (Most Important)
Don’t rely on the seller’s or showroom’s inspection. Request an inspection from a neutral center with no stake in the sale.
What does a comprehensive inspection cover?
Engine (oil leaks, abnormal sounds, performance), transmission (smooth shifting), body (paint, respray, dents, rust), chassis (structural integrity: if damaged, don’t buy), electrical systems, tires (tread depth, even wear), brakes, and suspension.
Where to inspect?
Certified centers like Saudi Fahas, private centers, or mobile inspection services. In Al Shifa showrooms: Tareeq Al Barakah Center (055 928 4628).
Cost
Basic (body + mechanical): SAR 200-350. Comprehensive (+ computer + chassis): SAR 350-500.
2. Step 2: Accident History via Najm
Najm Insurance Services records every traffic accident in Saudi Arabia. Visit najm.sa to check accident reports. Look for: number of accidents, severity, and date of last incident.
3. Step 3: Violations via Absher
Check Absher → My Services → Traffic → Violations Inquiry. Unpaid fines mean you can’t transfer ownership. Numerous violations (red lights, speeding) suggest the car was driven recklessly.
4. Step 4: Odometer Check
ابحث عن سيارة أحلامك الآن!
آلاف السيارات الجديدة والمستعملة بأفضل الأسعار. تصفح، قارن، واشتري بكل سهولة من خلال منصة كارلي الموثوقة.
How to detect a tampered odometer
Compare with age: a 5-year-old car at 30,000 km is suspicious (normal is 15,000-20,000 km/year). Check service records: invoices show kilometers at each visit. Computer diagnostic: some cars store kilometers in multiple electronic units.
5. Step 5: Registration and Insurance
Registration must be valid. Insurance must be active. Verify the owner name on registration matches the seller.
6. Step 6: Test Drive
Test: engine sounds (cold and warm), transmission smoothness, brake straight stopping, steering stability, suspension over bumps, AC cooling, all lights. Drive at different speeds (30, 80, 120 km/h if possible). Problems appear at higher speeds.
7. Step 7: Chassis Number (VIN)
The Vehicle Identification Number is 17 characters, found below the windshield or on the door frame. VIN on the car must match VIN in paperwork. No scratching or tampering on the VIN plate. If different, don’t buy (possible stolen or assembled vehicle).
8. The Easier Alternative: Carly Inspects for You
| Step | Do It Yourself | Carly |
|---|---|---|
| Inspection | SAR 200-500 | Included (150 points) |
| Najm | You search | Pre-checked |
| Absher | You verify | Pre-checked |
| Odometer | You try to detect | Verified |
| Registration | You check | Guaranteed valid |
| Test drive | Convince the seller | Free at Carly Hub |
| VIN | You verify | Documented and matched |
| If problem found | You bear the cost | 12-month warranty + 7-day return |
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does a used car inspection cost?
Basic: SAR 200-350. Comprehensive: SAR 350-500. On Carly: included in the price.
How do I know if the odometer is tampered?
Compare km with car age (normal: 15,000-20,000 km/year) + check service invoices + computer diagnostic.
Can I inspect a car before buying from a showroom?
Yes, it’s your right. If the showroom refuses, don’t buy.
What’s the most important thing to check?
The chassis (frame). If the chassis was damaged in a previous accident, the car is unsafe regardless of exterior appearance.
Does Carly inspect every car?
Yes. Every car on Carly undergoes 150-point inspection before listing. Cars that fail are not listed.
How do I check Najm for accidents?
Visit najm.sa → Accident report inquiry → enter plate number or accident number.
Information updated through May 2026.
Carly: 150-point inspection + 12-month warranty + 7-day return = worry-free purchase.
Click. Buy. Drive.
© Carly (Sama Wahida Cars Showroom Co., CR# 1010750056). All rights reserved.
