Act fast and follow the paper trail you built before buying. First, document everything immediately: take photos and videos of the fault, note the date of arrival and the odometer reading. Most exporters offer a commercial warranty window (typically 15-30 days after arrival) for major components like the engine, transmission and high-voltage battery. Contact the exporter in writing with the evidence, referencing your contract's warranty clause. For minor issues, a common arrangement is that they air-freight the spare part to you or reimburse a capped repair amount at a local workshop. To protect yourself before purchase: get the warranty terms written into the sales contract, including response time, what is covered, and how parts compensation is calculated. Also ask which fast-wearing parts (brake pads, filters, wipers) they recommend buying together with the car, so you are not stuck waiting for a small part from overseas.

A structured live video inspection can catch most mechanical problems. Ask the seller to do the following in order: Cold start: film the engine bay before starting — check for leaks, cracked hoses, and corrosion. Then start from cold and listen for rattling or knocking during the first minute; abnormal noises on cold start often mean worn internals. Fluids: pull the oil dipstick — milky or foamy oil suggests head gasket issues. Check coolant color and level. Transmission: with the car warmed up, film each gear shift, forward and reverse. Hesitation, harsh jerks, or slipping RPM are red flags. Brakes: test at low speed in a safe area — the pedal should feel firm, not spongy, and the car must not pull to one side. Tires: walk around and film each tire's sidewall and tread. Uneven wear suggests alignment or suspension problems. Combine this with an independent pre-shipment inspection for a professional report — the video call is your first filter, not the final verdict.

Our delivery standard is 'As-Is'. If the original owner only hands over one key at the time of collection, the report will clearly state 'Keys: 1'. Do not assume that all used cars come with two keys, as the cost of reprogramming smart keys overseas is very high.