4 commonly used car scams that car buyers don’t know about

Clocking

Perhaps the scam that most are familiar with, clocking is the practice of winding back the odometer. This makes the vehicle more desirable and so that higher prices can be negotiated. Carefully examine the area around the odometer for any signs of tampering such as scratches. You should also view the Ministry of transport history as this will list the mileage at the last check. It will also indicate whether or not the odometer has been changed.

Money Transfer Scams

These scams both typically occur online -you must always be extra vigilant online. The first is the one is where the seller claims that the car will be shipped from overseas once a payment has been made – this will be fake and the seller will vanish after taking your money. The other is a deposit scam where they pressure you into putting down a deposit to secure the vehicle. Again, they will disappear after receiving your money. Avoid both of these by always viewing a car in person and meeting the seller, or insisting that you select a third-party to hold the funds.