Used cars are the first choice among drivers in Germany. No wonder, especially when, as is currently the case, new car prices are far too high. It is all the more important that car buyers know what they are doing when they decide on a used car. Even a small mistake can be really dangerous.
Buy used: Smartphone apps become a risk when buying a car
For many car buyers, used cars are the best option when the old car no longer works. The teething problems are then cured and the new owner usually has many years left with the vehicle in good condition. However, newer models pose a problem for used buyers.
Connect Appswhich allow the control of some functions or the reading of information about the vehicle via smartphone under no circumstances is it still connected to the previous owner’s cell phone be. For example, can the car be unlocked remotely, the battery level or tank level read out or even the Query location via app, As a buyer, you have to make sure that only you have access to these functions. Otherwise, the practical features could become “a real horror idea,” warns the ADAC.
Such apps are no longer uncommon. Teslas can perform various functions via the manufacturer’s app. Mercedes has just introduced remote-controlled parking for its models. Also BMW and Volkswagen have their own applications that drivers can use to access their vehicle using their smartphone.
However, in many cases this is still possible for the previous owner even after the sale. In the best case scenario, this is an oversight on the part of the seller and can be easily resolved. But if you as a used buyer don’t notice it, it could be A malicious seller can also retrieve the location of the vehicle afterwards and even unlock it, for example.
ADAC advises: Purchase contract should require smartphone separation
The ADAC therefore recommends that used buyers pay attention to this specify in the purchase contract that the vehicle is disconnected from any previous smartphone connections becomes. Although this is often possible afterwards, it can be significantly more complicated for the new owner. According to the ADAC, resetting the car’s system to its factory state does not always help.
These four cars are still available for under 15,000 euros:
But at least you should check – ideally before you buy, for example during a test drive – which users are digitally connected to the car. This can usually be found out via the infotainment system. There However, removing stored devices is often not that easy. The ADAC’s criticism is therefore also aimed at the manufacturers, who, in the opinion of the car experts, should improve their systems.
The problem also exists in another direction: If you want to resell your car, you should also protect your data and remove connected devices from the car’s memory.