Most car sellers are genuine, whether it is a private sale or through a garage. However, there are some bogus sellers and they may be selling stolen cars.
- Think about checking, with one of several private companies that hold information on vehicles, whether the car has been reported stolen, seriously damaged or is still subject to a finance agreement (such as hire purchase).
- Always arrange to meet the person selling the car at their house, not at your house or another meeting place.
- Check any security etchings to make sure they match and have not been removed.
- Check that the chassis number matches that on the vehicle registration document.
- Always check the registration documents and look for a full service history.
Selling a used car
- Never let the buyer go on a test drive alone. They may not return.
- Don't leave the buyer alone with the keys in the ignition.
-
Be careful when accepting cheque's or banker's drafts. If they are fraudulent or counterfeit, you will lose the money. Like cheque's, bankers drafts take time to be cleared, so don't part with your car until you are sure the payment is genuine.
Last updated/reviewed 7th January 2010 |
