German cars never fail to impress with their timeless appeal and spectacular engine performance. While Japanese cars are great for getting you from Point A to B, German cars are for when you have already arrived.

Buying a brand new German car can put a huge dent in your savings. And it doesn't stop there. It keeps draining your pockets dry with high maintenance and insurance costs down the road.

However, the exorbitant sticker price of a German car doesn't stop enthusiasts from buying one. So, they start exploring options in the used car market. Why? Because German cars depreciate up to 30% in value within the first six months, making it a lucrative purchase for those who aspire to drive a German car but can't afford a brand new one.

If you are looking to buy a used luxury car in the UAE, here are a few things that you must keep in mind.

#1 Follow Your Heart

This tip might sound counterintuitive when buying a used German car. Shouldn't you make this decision with your brain and not your heart? Well, here's a plausible explanation.

The thing is, almost every used German car is going to give you trouble down the road. And if you buy a car that you have set your eyes and heart on for a long time, it will be worth the trouble.

For instance, if you wish to own a BMW, don't settle for a Mercedes or any other car for that matter. The satisfaction of owning your favorite car trumps everything else.

#2 Be wary of out-of-warranty cars

People who buy brand new German cars opt for an extended warranty for a reason. German cars have performance-oriented engines, which means they are highly complex and prone to breakdowns if not maintained properly. An extended warranty protects the owner against any engine, gearbox or electronic issue that may arise due to no fault of their own.

If you buy an out-of-warranty car, keep in mind that you will have to bear the huge maintenance expenses that come with owning a used German car.

To that end, you can always get your vehicle serviced or repaired outside the dealership. This is where UAETyres can help. From a BMW service center in Abu Dhabi to a fully equipped workshop for Audi repair in Dubai, UAETyres provides affordable services for German cars, including Porsche, Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, etc.

#3 Get It Inspected

The easiest way to avoid a lemon is to get your prospective car inspected before buying it. A thorough inspection can reveal a lot about the engine's condition, suspensions, tyres, chassis, fuel pump and other electronic and mechanical components that are likely to snap.

UAETyres provides a comprehensive car inspection for all models and makes. Whether it's a BMW, Porsche, Merc or Audi, our technicians will look under and over the vehicle to give you a detailed report so you can make an informed buying decision or use it to negotiate the price with the seller.

#4 Check Service History

A German vehicle that has not been maintained properly during its first five years is highly likely to become an endless money pit. German engines demand regular oil and filter changes. Plus, it is important to replace consumables, such as brake pads and clutch plates, so that they don't damage the next component in line.

If the seller doesn't have the service records, you can obtain the vehicle's service history from the nearest dealership service center.

This shall give you a fair idea of how well or poorly the previous owner has maintained the vehicle and what you can expect down the road.

#5 Resale takes the worst hit after the second owner

If you are buying a used German vehicle with the intention of selling it after a few months, keep in mind that its resale value is going to take the worst hit. You might have to sell it at a throwaway price, if you get any buyer at all.

In that case, it is recommended to lease or rent the car since it's a cheaper option if you want to drive the car for the short term. On top of that, you don't have to worry about insurance renewals and other maintenance expenses. All these additional costs will be factored into the lease/rent agreement so you can enjoy a stress-free driving experience.

#6 Avoid buying from a young driver

German cars beg to be pushed to their full potential, but at the same time, they demand regular maintenance and part replacements in order to function optimally in the long run. Behind the wheel of a German car, young drivers are highly likely to show off their drift skills and participate in drag races, which put a lot of strain on the engine and the transmission.

That is why it is best to buy a used German car from sedate drivers, such as doctors, lawyers and other high-income professionals who have more important things to do than indulge in reckless driving.

#7 Check out the tyre/rim condition

Most used car buyers overlook the wheels during a walkaround, and that's one costly mistake. The wheels of a German car aren't cheap since they are made with the best materials that can withstand the abuse and weight of the vehicle.

If you notice scratches or dents on the rim, or the tyre tread has worn off, it's a perfect opportunity to negotiate the price.

Nonetheless, you are going to need a new set of tyres if you are hoping to keep your German car for the next couple of years. And when it comes to buying the best tyres in UAE, Bridgestone tyres offer great performance and value for money.

We hope these tips will help you in your decision to buy a used German car.