The Most Common Used Car Selling Scams
Mar 22, 2017 09:51
When something sounds too good to be true it usually is. Don't get flattered and reeled in by a very attractive deal (that trust us will not be all it seems). Even though it’s 2017 there are still some dishonest pushy dealers out there who will go to any lengths to make a sale.
To help you avoid being ripped off, we have highlighted below 2 of the most common used car scams and how you can avoid falling victim to them.
This scam has been around for years now and it is a relatively simple one to pull and is way more common than you may think but fear not as it is easily avoided with a bit of vigilance on your part.
When you view the vehicle and think the dashboard has been tampered with, that's a clear signal something is wrong. Also if the wear and tear of the car doesn't quite fit the mileage advertised this is another red flag.
One simple way to avoid this is by purchasing a used car history check from websites like Cazana. This check will give you all the information you need on the car's MOT history. You can then match this history with the one given to you by the dealer and you will be able to easily identify if there are any mileage discrepancies.
To avoid scams like this always check that the VRM matches the V5C. You will also need to make sure the VIN and engine number match the ones on the V5C and your used car history check.
It’s also a good idea to view the car before you buy it and try to avoid paying by cash.
When buying a used car always protect yourself by doing as much research as possible and paying a few quid to get a history check. It will cost you a couple of quid in the short term but will save you money and stress in the long run. If you have no knowledge of car terms etc ask a friend or relative and get a second opinion when buying.
To help you avoid being ripped off, we have highlighted below 2 of the most common used car scams and how you can avoid falling victim to them.
Clocking
Clocking is when the dealer or seller illegally reduces the amount of mileage a car has done on its odometer which increases the vehicles sale value.This scam has been around for years now and it is a relatively simple one to pull and is way more common than you may think but fear not as it is easily avoided with a bit of vigilance on your part.
When you view the vehicle and think the dashboard has been tampered with, that's a clear signal something is wrong. Also if the wear and tear of the car doesn't quite fit the mileage advertised this is another red flag.
One simple way to avoid this is by purchasing a used car history check from websites like Cazana. This check will give you all the information you need on the car's MOT history. You can then match this history with the one given to you by the dealer and you will be able to easily identify if there are any mileage discrepancies.
Cloning
This is the car world's version of identity fraud to put it simply. It involves taking the number plate of a written off or damaged car and putting it on a very similar car, therefore trying to pass it off as legitimate.To avoid scams like this always check that the VRM matches the V5C. You will also need to make sure the VIN and engine number match the ones on the V5C and your used car history check.
It’s also a good idea to view the car before you buy it and try to avoid paying by cash.
When buying a used car always protect yourself by doing as much research as possible and paying a few quid to get a history check. It will cost you a couple of quid in the short term but will save you money and stress in the long run. If you have no knowledge of car terms etc ask a friend or relative and get a second opinion when buying.
