Common Scam Types
- Clone Ads: Scammers copy legitimate listings, lower the price and rush you to send a deposit.
- Too Good to Be True: Unrealistically low prices usually mean the car doesn’t exist or is a write‑off.
- Deposit Scams: Sellers ask for a “holding deposit” via bank transfer and vanish.
- Fake VINs: The VIN on the ad is different to the one on the car. This hides encumbrance or theft.
How to Spot a Dodgy Seller
Scam sellers typically avoid phone calls, refuse inspections, and insist on immediate payment. They may claim to be overseas or in the army. Always meet in person, inspect the car in daylight, and never pay until ownership is transferred.
Use our free checklist to run through scam spotters. When in doubt, walk away – the right car will come along.
Need help? Grab our Confidence Pack for a script that exposes scammers in one phone call.