Used Car Guide Cyprus

Good to know

• A significant portion of cars on the market are used; thoroughly check condition, service history and any past accidents.
• This guide will give you handy tips and tricks that will help you find your next used car in Cyprus.

Legal & documents

• Kotsáni (registration): Document must be present and match seller ID.
• Import tax clearance: Confirm taxes are paid; temporary waivers can become your liability.
• Japanese auction sheet (for imports): Verify the original. Key fields:
  • Top-right: Grade (6 = like new, 5 = excellent, 4.5/4 = good, 3.5 = fair, 3 or lower = accident history/poor)
  • Check for mileage inconsistencies, accident repairs, repainting.
• MOT (roadworthiness): Ensure a valid test for your used car; schedule if due.
  Official MOT info.
• Road tax: Check status and cost.
  Renew/pay online.

Technical inspection

• Bodywork: Expect minor scratches; check panel alignment and resprays.
• Suspension: Push each corner; it shouldn’t bounce more than once.
• Brakes: Inspect pad thickness, watch for vibration, test braking.
• Water ingress: After heavy winter rains, smell for mold; check carpets and seat rails.
• Tires: Tread depth and even wear.
• Engine: Cold start should be smooth; no abnormal noise/smoke. Check oil and coolant for contamination.
• Test drive: Verify shifting, acceleration, braking, stability.

Functional features (handy in Cyprus)

• Parking sensors & rear camera
• Folding side mirrors
• Downhill gear in automatics (engine braking on steep roads)
• Apple CarPlay / Android Auto (better navigation)
• Higher ground clearance
• Reverse-gear mirror tilt
• Tinted windows
• Strong A/C
• Sufficient engine power for short on-ramps

Additional checks for used cars in Cyprus

• Service history and mileage consistency
• Number of previous owners
• Recent MOT date/result
• VIN matches Kotsáni and vehicle
• Insurance class and road-tax costs
• Optional: hire a local mechanic or mobile inspector before purchase