MUSCAT: Buying an imported vehicle may appear attractive because of its lower price, but buyers could face hidden risks ranging from accident and flood damage to registration problems and unexpected repair costs, authorities and specialists have warned.
The Royal Oman Police (ROP) has cautioned buyers that some imported vehicles may not meet the safety and durability standards required for use on Oman’s roads.
“Many second-hand vehicles brought from abroad have been hidden victims of serious road accidents, fires, or water damage caused by floods, hurricanes and wadis,” the ROP said.
The authority warned that severely damaged or unserviceable vehicles can pose serious traffic safety and environmental risks and may cost more to dispose of than their actual value.
The Consumer Protection Authority (CPA) has also urged consumers planning to buy imported vehicles to verify the vehicle’s history and ensure that all terms and conditions are clearly documented before making any payment.
The warning follows a recent case registered in Al Suwaiq involving a consumer who purchased a flood-damaged vehicle from an import company. The vehicle could not be registered with the ROP, contrary to the terms agreed in the contract.
The dispute was later resolved amicably, with the sale cancelled and the consumer receiving a full refund.
Vehicle dealer Jamsheed Tannadamkunnath advised buyers to obtain the vehicle identification number (VIN) before making payment and check its history through services such as Carfax or AutoCheck, as well as records from the vehicle’s country of origin.
“Buyers should check for accidents, flood damage and salvage titles, as many imported vehicles from the US and Japan have been affected by floods and hurricanes,” he said.
Warning signs can include rust, water lines, mud inside door panels, a musty smell and corroded electrical connectors. Buyers should also compare the mileage shown on the vehicle’s history report with the odometer to identify possible tampering.
The vehicle must also meet Oman’s legal and registration requirements and pass the ROP inspection. Flood-damaged or structurally compromised vehicles may fail inspection and become impossible to register.
Buyers are advised to consider the following before purchasing an imported vehicle:
Check specifications: Ensure the vehicle meets applicable GCC requirements for climate, air-conditioning and emissions. Some vehicles built for other markets may require costly modifications.
Check eligibility: Confirm the vehicle meets the current age and import requirements applicable in Oman before placing an order.
Calculate all costs: Buyers should account for customs duties, VAT, shipping, registration and any modification costs when comparing the final price with locally available vehicles.
Get everything in writing: The contract should clearly state the vehicle’s make, model, year, colour, mileage, specifications, delivery date and accident or flood history.
Avoid full advance payment: Payments should, where possible, be linked to agreed stages of the transaction rather than paying the entire amount upfront.
Verify the company: Buyers should check that the importer is properly licensed and has a verifiable business address.
Check the warranty: Consumers should establish what warranty is offered and who will provide after-sales service in Oman, particularly when the vehicle does not have local dealer support.
Arrange an independent inspection: Have the vehicle inspected by an independent garage before accepting delivery.
Test electrical systems: Flood-damaged vehicles can develop electrical and electronic problems long after purchase, making a thorough inspection particularly important.
Keep all records: Contracts, receipts, advertisements, messages and other transaction documents should be retained in case a dispute arises.
Consumers who encounter problems after purchasing an imported vehicle should act promptly and approach the nearest Consumer Protection Authority office to seek assistance.
The authorities' advice is clear: a vehicle that appears to be a bargain may become an expensive liability if its history, condition and eligibility for registration in Oman are not verified before purchase.
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