Everything you need to know about how to buy a car in Switzerland

Are you thinking of buying a car in Switzerland? If yes, we have some good news! However, before committing to a purchase, make sure you understand and comply with the terms and conditions. Read on to learn all about buying and registering a car in Switzerland.

Buying a Car in Switzerland

Although the public transport network in Switzerland is good, many citizens prefer to drive. There are 540 cars per 1,000 inhabitants which mean there is only one car for two people. In addition, over 78% of Swiss households own a car, and 82% of adults in Switzerland have a driver’s license. So, it only makes sense that buying a car in Switzerland is easy, and that’s why many foreigners choose to buy rather than import their car when they move to Switzerland. You can buy new or used cars from dealers, online auction sites, and private sellers.

Buying a new car in Switzerland

Buying a new car is more expensive than buying a used car, but you get the peace of mind of knowing what you are buying. In addition, if you buy from a dealer, they may offer follow-up assistance, discounts, or repairs, and some Swiss dealerships will insist on buying car insurance.

Some dealers will let you pay in monthly installments or even offer leasing options, but you’ll need to show a good credit history through your bank. Also, most sellers will be willing to provide a quick payment tax or cash, so you can always negotiate.

Buying a used car in Switzerland

People prefer to buy a used car as cars that are less than two years old are often sold for a fraction of their original price. However, a little more expensive sometimes means less protection, as with some second-hand purchases, you’re not sure what you’re getting, and things can go wrong. But, if you buy from a large retailer or through a specialized online broker, you are much more protected than if you buy on your own through an individual.

Before buying a used car in Switzerland, it would be a good idea to make sure that you have received the following:

Sales contract or purchase agreement – This includes the terms of sale, vehicle details, buyer and seller details, and warranty period. The rate is two years for used cars, but it can be increased or decreased.

Vehicle report – Swiss cars must be inspected every few years. You can also run a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check accident history, mileage, etc. This information can also be found in several VIN decoder portals online by entering VIN.

Previous owner information – The cantonal road traffic offices have information about the owners of all registered vehicles. Therefore, you will need to provide the license plate number to be identified.

Old registration certificate – You may need an old registration certificate when registering a vehicle in your name.

Where to buy a car in Switzerland?

Car dealers in Switzerland – You can find car dealers all over Switzerland, which sell new cars or used cars. Often, dealers have showrooms with a variety of vehicles for sale inside and outside the building. Therefore, they include retailers that deal with a single brand (e.g., Mercedes-Benz), large national retailers that sell multiple brands (e.g., AMAG), and some smaller regional or local retailers.

These dealers may allow you to take the car out for a short test drive to help you decide whether you want to buy it or not. In addition, dealers will also take care of the paperwork, such as registering the car for you and providing other support and services such as maintenance or car insurance. However, some vendors may not offer the cheapest prices for these services.

Online sales in Switzerland – autoankauf schweiz online has become common recently, especially since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and people were unable to visit the showroom. The online car market has expanded for used cars, but it expect to grow for new cars as well. As a result, some car brands and retailers have already started their online sales; other popular websites are AutoScout24, Comparis, and Autociel. However, buying a car online usually involves visiting a dealership to process the paperwork and pick up the car.

Although online shopping is easy and allows you to search the market and find the best deals, you should be aware of the drawbacks. For example, you will not have the opportunity to test drive the car. But you can check if it is possible to return the car if you are not satisfied.

Registering a used car in Switzerland

If you bought a used car in Switzerland, you will need to change the number plates. So, when registering a used car, you must provide:

The new tax rate for motor vehicle tax

The vehicle will re-register under your license, and you will receive a confirmation along with the vehicle tax bill.

Car Finance in Switzerland

The main costs you should consider when autoankauf schweiz, apart from the actual purchase price, are:

Registration – varies between cartons but can be around CHF 50-300 for license plates, registration certificates, and inspections.

Car tax – varies between cars and cars, but usually costs around CHF 100-800 per year.

Motorway tax – you must buy a particular item (vignette) for your car if you want to use other roads; it costs about CHF 40 per year.

Car insurance – can be around CHF 300 to 400 per year for third parties to CHF 1,000-2,000 for comprehensive policies.

Gasoline – currently, it costs about CHF 1.76 per liter.

Vehicle inspection – required after four years and then every three years after that, and costs around CHF 130.

Conclusion

Buying a car in Switzerland is easy as Switzerland has a large car market. You can buy either a new or used car, but of course. There are certain requirements that you should take care of. After you have completed all the paperwork and documents. There is nothing left but enjoying driving around the beautiful Swiss roads.