Avoid dealerships by learning how to buy a car online safely. Buyers purchasing their car through a dealership or an individual seller online can learn to avoid scams. Confirm the existence of the vehicle, investigate extremely low prices carefully, never wire money to a seller and never give out personal information.
Low, Low Price
Scam artists will lure potential victims with an offer that is too good to be true. Because many people are wary of this type of offer, they will support it with an emotionally charged story. Common ruses include claiming they need the money because they have been laid off or a relative died.
Another story tells the reader someone is sick and the car needs to be sold fast to pay for medical expenses. Test these offers by inquiring about payment methods. If the seller requests a wire transfer, look for a different vehicle.
Locate the Car
When dealing with individual sellers, verification the car exists is essential. When purchasing through a dealership, an automobile history report is essential. Ask the seller for the vehicle identification numerals (VIN) and a copy of the registration. Verify the automobile with CARFAX. Speak with the individual by phone or in person, and always have the car inspected by a trusted mechanic.
A person unwilling to comply with any of these requests may have something to hide. Research the vehicle or use a car inspection company to do the job. Never rely on photographs and e-mail communications alone.
Payment
The individual selling their vehicle should agree to the buyer’s method of payment. Wire transfers are not recommended unless the parties know each other personally. The seller receiving a wire transfer can disappear with the cash without handing over the title.
Arrange payment in person or at a bank, and pay in cash. A trusted or neutral escrow company is another way to conduct the transaction fairly. Title is always received at the time of payment.
Avoid identity theft or fraud and do not give out personal information. A social security or bank account number is not necessary to make the purchase when dealing with an individual. This information would be necessary if the buyer is financing the vehicle. In this case, the purchasing party obtains the car history and investigates the reputation of the dealership before buying.
Purchasing a car online safely requires some due diligence in person, but the end result is a fair transaction for both parties.
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