It depends on the brand and model, so verify before you buy. Three things to check. First, connectivity: many Chinese EVs use embedded SIMs tied to Chinese carriers. Abroad, remote app control, live navigation and some cloud services may stop working unless the car can switch to a local SIM or the brand operates servers in your region. Second, language and navigation: ask the exporter to show the system menu in English or your language, and confirm the maps can be switched to your region — some head units carry China-only map data. Third, charging: verify the charge port standard (GB/T, CCS or Type 2) and whether the onboard AC charger accepts your local grid voltage and frequency. Also ask about OTA updates: official overseas models usually receive them; grey-import cars often do not. Get these answers in writing from the seller, and test the connected features over a video call before shipping.

Request a live video call during the test drive rather than a pre-recorded one. Cold start first: listen for rattling or metal scraping in the first seconds — possible timing chain or hydraulic lifter issues. During acceleration, a whining from the gearbox area can mean bearing wear; hesitation or jerking in an automatic suggests transmission problems. Braking: the pedal should feel firm, not spongy, and the car must not pull to one side. Turn the wheel fully in both directions and listen for clicking — a classic CV joint fault. Insist on a highway segment too: vibrations above 100 km/h often point to unbalanced wheels or bent rims. Ask the driver to film the dashboard throughout — warning lights that flicker on briefly are still faults that OBD will record.

A clean title check has three layers. First, run the VIN through maintenance records: dealers in China log service visits with mileage, and gaps or mileage rollbacks are red flags. Second, pull insurance claim history — major accidents, fire and flood damage usually leave claim records even if the car was repaired well. Third, verify registration status: confirm the car is not under finance, court seizure, or theft report. From overseas, you can engage a local inspection agency or law firm to retrieve these records and issue a written report. Cross-check the VIN and engine number on the report against the registration certificate; any mismatch means walk away.