Tips,Car published on 22.01.2025
Changing your car in Luxembourg: the comprehensive and practical guide
Blog/Changing your car in Luxembourg: the comprehensive and practical guide

The Autofestival is an event in Luxembourg that you just cannot miss at the start of the year. It is the ideal opportunity for you to think about changing your car. But regardless of the time of year, whether you want to switch to private leasing or buy a new car, this guide will help you every step of the way.

Maximising the resale value of your current car

The first step involves getting a precise estimation of the value of your current vehicle. You can do this by comparing its features with advertisements for similar cars on the market. Car dealers often offer trade-in deals, making the process simple.

Nevertheless, don’t forget that selling directly to a private individual can often be more lucrative than a trade-in deal with the dealer.

Purchase or leasing: find the best option for you

Are you trying to decide whether to buy a car or opt for a private leasing contract? Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Purchase: You become the owner of the vehicle with no restrictions on the kilometres you drive and full freedom to customise it. However, if you finance the purchase with a personal loan, the monthly fees can be high.
  • Private leasing: You’ll get more affordable monthly payments, regular renewals to ensure you have access to the latest models, as well as maintenance benefits. Nevertheless, there will be restrictions on the number of kilometres your drive and the choice of insurance companies may be limited. You should also check whether excesses apply to the insurance provided.

With Time2Lease, you retain the option of choosing LALUX as your insurance company while enjoying the financial benefits of leasing. This means you get high performance cover, while keeping the personalised services provided by your insurance agent.

Ultimately, the choice between buying and leasing depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle and long-term financial goals. Study these considerations carefully to determine the best option to suit your needs.

Choosing and updating your car insurance

In Luxembourg, the only compulsory insurance is civil liability car insurance. However, it does only cover damage to third parties. To protect your vehicle and yourself fully, we strongly recommend that you take out insurance that covers you when you’re behind the wheel and you get Casco insurance for a new car.

Once you've selected your new car, your dealer will ask for the name of your insurer so that you can obtain a “green card”, i.e. the insurance certificate you need to make sure you're covered as soon as you leave with your new car. Don't forget to inform your LALUX agent so that they can cancel your old car insurance and transfer it to the new one.

The same procedure applies if you choose to lease a car through Time2Lease.

Transactions between individuals – what you need to know

If you buy a second-hand car from an individual, you are responsible for the following steps:

  • Deregister the vehicle (unless the previous owner has already done so).
  • Register your vehicle with the SNCA. Your LALUX agent will help you with these steps and provide you with the insurance certificate you need.

Here are the documents you will need:

  • European Certificate of Conformity (if the first registration took place after 1 February 2016).
  • Valid technical inspection certificate.
  • Completed and signed registration forms.
  • Sales contract with the previous owner.
  • ID document (passport or ID card).

For an imported vehicle, some additional steps are required. Check them out in our guide.

Drive with peace of mind, drive with LALUX

For a smooth transition to your new vehicle, ask your LALUX agent for advice and discover the easyPROTECT Auto insurance solutions, perfectly tailored to suit your needs.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your driving experience in Luxembourg. Drive safely!