How to Avoid Being Scammed When Purchasing a Used Car

The Internet is a global marketplace for big-time companies and everyday people. Purchasing a vehicle is a major investment, besides purchasing a house, it may be the biggest purchase you’ll ever make. There is an obvious risk involved when buying a used vehicle from a private owner because unfortunately, not everyone is truthful when selling their vehicle. Here are a few things you can do to avoid falling victim to vehicle fraud.

Beware of Ads That Appear Better Than They Are

Finding a deal is a fantastic feeling, however, when the deal appears to be much lower than the standard rate for the year and model of a specific vehicle, there is a reason to be suspicious. When the price for a vehicle falls far below the average market value, it could mean the seller is not disclosing certain issues with the vehicle that would otherwise make the vehicle unsellable. In worst case scenarios, the car could be stolen. Warning signs that you may not get precisely what is being advertised include: the seller’s refusal to communicate in-person, the seller preferring to stick to text messages and emails,  or the seller is pushing you into a sale rather than letting you make an educated and thoughtful decision.

Never Pay Before You Get Your Vehicle

When you go to a fancy restaurant, you get to look at the menu and eat your meal before you must pay which allows the customer to order a new meal if they don’t like what they’ve ordered. The same logic applies when you’re purchasing a used vehicle; never pay for the full price of the car before it has been signed over to you. Although, putting down a deposit is a great way to inform the seller that you are serious about buying a car, paying the full amount before you’re ready to drive it home is not a wise idea.

Ensure You Get the Vehicle’s CARFAX Report

You deserve to know everything about a vehicle before you spend thousands of your hard-earned dollars. You deserve to know the vehicle’s accident history, the vehicle’s registration history if the car has ever been reported as stolen if the car has even been registered as collateral for debt (lien status) and if it has ever been involved in police matters in Canada or the United States.

Make Sure Your Vehicle has a Current Safety

Sometimes, test driving a vehicle isn’t enough. The vehicle may drive smoothly, but if there are subtle issues with the engine, brakes, or muffler, you may end up paying more money to repair the vehicle, than drive it. An individual selling a used car may be aware of these problems and may try to undersell how severe the issues are.  Having an up-to-date Safety will give you Peace of Mind.