Buying in Europe
Articles in the “Buying in Europe” category of the Levante V12 blog.
Buying in EuropeWarranty on a used car bought in another EU country
If you buy a used car from a professional seller in another EU country, you have a legal guarantee of at least two years, which for used goods can be agreed at a shorter period, never less than one year. When buying from a private individual, European consumer rules do not apply.
· 8 min read
Buying in EuropeTampered odometer: how to spot it before buying in Europe
The most reliable way to spot a tampered odometer on a car bought in another European country is to compare the readings on its inspection certificates, its garage invoices and its wear. Spain's ITV does not replace that check before you buy.
· 7 min read
Buying in EuropeImporting an electric car from Europe: what changes
An electric car bought in the EU is imported with the same steps as any other, but a pure electric car is taxed at 0% in the registration tax (though it must be declared), is entitled to the CERO label and its VAT follows the usual rules. The battery deserves a separate check.
· 6 min read
Buying in EuropeImporting a motorhome from Europe: what you need to know
A motorhome bought in the EU is registered in Spain like a car, but its category and CO2 emissions decide the registration tax (with a 30% reduction in the base), its maximum mass decides whether a B licence is enough and its category changes how often the ITV is due.
· 7 min read
Buying in EuropeImporting a motorbike from Germany: paperwork and taxes
A motorbike bought in Germany is registered in Spain like a car, but with its own rules: combustion models up to 250 cc are not subject to registration tax and the rest are taxed on CO2 in their own brackets. The licence required and the ITV calendar also change.
· 6 min read
Buying in EuropeImporting a car from Germany to Spain: steps and documents
To bring a car from Germany you must buy it with all its documents, pass the pre-registration ITV, pay the registration tax and, if the car is new for VAT purposes, VAT in Spain, pay the road tax and register it with the DGT.
· 8 min read
Buying in EuropeChassis number (VIN): how to check it before you buy
To check a car's chassis number (VIN), compare the number marked on the vehicle with the one on the registration certificate, the certificate of conformity and the inspection certificates. With it you can look up recalls and, if the car was registered in Spain, request a DGT report.
· 6 min read
Buying in EuropeScams when buying a car abroad: warning signs
When buying a second-hand car in another country, be wary of anyone asking for money in advance for a very cheap car you cannot see. We cover the warning signs flagged by INCIBE and the European Consumer Centre, how to pay safely and what to do if you have already paid.
· 6 min read
Buying in EuropeBuying a used car in Europe: what to check before you pay
Before paying for a used car in another EU country, check who is selling and what guarantee you have, that you will receive the original documents to register it in Spain, that the car matches its papers, its mileage and inspections, any recalls, and how to bring it over.
· 7 min read
Buying in EuropeBuying a car in Germany: from a private seller or a dealer?
Buying a car in Germany from a dealer gives you the EU legal guarantee and an invoice with their VAT number; a private seller may be cheaper, but without the consumer guarantee and with a contract you will have to translate. VAT and the checks differ too.
· 6 min read
