How to Avoid Dodgy Sellers: Red Flags to Watch For;
Buying a used car can feel like navigating a minefield. One wrong step and boom, you've got a car with more skeletons in its glovebox than you'd bargained for. But don’t worry! With a keen eye and a little know how, you can steer clear of dodgy sellers and drive away with confidence. Let’s look at the warning signs and how to avoid getting ripped off.
Clocking & Mileage Fraud: Are Those Miles Real?
Clocking; where a car’s mileage is illegally wound back to make it seem like it’s had an easier life is more common than you’d think. Here’s how to spot it:
- Check the MOT History – You can check a car’s MOT history online using the registration number. Look for sudden mileage drops or suspiciously low annual mileage increases.
- Examine the Interior – A car that claims to have done 30,000 miles but has a worn out steering wheel, shiny gear knob, or sagging driver’s seat should raise alarms.
- Look at the Pedals & Mats – Heavy wear on rubber pedals suggests higher mileage than advertised.
- Service History Scrutiny – If a seller provides a stamped service book, make sure the mileage entries match up logically.
If something feels off, walk away or request an independent mileage check.
Dodgy Photos & Fake Documents: What Are They Hiding?
A good advert should make a car look its best, but not too good. Some sellers stage photos or even forge documents to mask the truth.
- Suspiciously Professional Photos – If a private seller’s listing looks like it was taken in a showroom, ask questions. Are they actually a trader pretending to be private to avoid offering consumer rights?
- Blurry or Selective Images – If key areas (e.g., driver’s seat, dashboard, engine bay) are missing or blurred, they could be hiding damage or warning lights.
- VIN Number Mismatch – The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) should match across the logbook (V5C), door frame, windscreen, and service records. Mismatched numbers? Huge red flag!
- No Logbook, No Deal – A missing V5C logbook means you can’t verify ownership history. If the seller says it’s “lost” or “in the post,” be very cautious.
Trust Your Gut: If It Feels Off, Walk Away
Your instincts are your best tool when dealing with sellers. If something doesn’t sit right, don’t ignore it.
- Too Good to Be True? It Probably Is – If the price is way below market value, there’s likely a catch.
- High-Pressure Tactics – “I’ve got another buyer coming in an hour, so you need to decide now.” No, you don’t.
- Won’t Let You Test Drive? – A genuine seller should have no problem with you taking the car for a test drive. If they refuse, it could be stolen, uninsured, or mechanically unsound.
- Avoid Cash-Only Sales – A seller insisting on cash with no traceable transaction should raise alarm bells.
- Meeting in a Car Park? – If they won’t let you see the car at their home or business address, they might not be the legal owner.
Final Thoughts: Be Smart, Not Sorry
A little caution goes a long way. Take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to walk away if something doesn’t feel right. There are plenty of genuine sellers out there, so don’t let the dodgy ones ruin your buying experience. Happy car hunting, and may your next ride be as honest as its odometer says!
Comments ()