When purchasing a used vehicle, it’s essential to be aware of the potential scams that can occur. With the rise of online marketplaces, private listings, and car dealerships, it’s easier than ever for fraudsters to hide vehicle histories and sell damaged cars. According to CARFAX, around 2.45 million vehicles on U.S. roads may have rolled-back odometers, and more than 480,000 water-damaged autos were returned to the road last year.
Types of Scams
One common scam is curbstoning, where unlicensed dealers pose as private sellers to avoid consumer protection laws. They may claim the car belongs to a family member, even though the title is not in their name. These vehicles often come with hidden damage, salvage histories, or rolled-back mileage. Red flags include multiple listings tied to the same phone number and a seller who wants to meet in a parking lot instead of at a home address.
Another scam is title washing, where a vehicle with major accident damage or a salvage or flood title is re-registered in another state so that the history no longer appears on the title. This can make the car appear cleaner on paper than it really is. If the car is priced far below what its age or condition would suggest, or the seller dodges questions about the title, it’s best to walk away.
Protecting Yourself
To avoid getting scammed, it’s crucial to do your research and verify the seller’s information. Check if the seller’s name matches the title, and ask to see the title before meeting. A legitimate private seller will hold the title in their name. You should also get a full vehicle history report and check for any inconsistencies between what the title says and what the report shows.
Additionally, be wary of low-priced cars, as they may attract buyers who make quick decisions before doing their homework. Scammers often use tricks such as pressuring the buyer to make a fast decision and close the deal right away. Always compare similar listings locally before committing to a purchase, and think twice if the seller refuses to meet during daylight or allow for an inspection.
It’s also essential to inspect the vehicle thoroughly, as many scams succeed because buyers rely on first impressions rather than a thorough mechanical inspection. Don’t react impulsively, and consider paying a mechanic to inspect the vehicle. This can reveal hidden problems such as flood and frame damage, poor repairs, and latent mechanical issues.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
