Buying a car online is a regular way to get your hands on a new car. It is a surefire way to detect a variety of vehicles quickly and easily and, if done properly, without any problems. However, like many other online shopping sites, you need to be on your toes to avoid getting caught.
Here, we look at some of the things you need to look at when buying a car online.
If it looks too good to be true, then it probably is
As with the majority of things in life, if a car looks too good to be true, it probably is. Suspicious low price – often thousands cheaper than other equivalent cars available – first red flags, such as lack of contact details or description.
Trust your guts here; browse for other ads and you will soon see that suspicious ad stand out like a sore thumb. As always, if in doubt, leave it out. Also, if you have any other concerns, check government advice here.
Don’t waste any money until you get a car
It is important not to part with one pen until you look at the car and enjoy it. Many scams work by getting people to transfer money early, usually as a way to protect the car. However, in these cases, the car is missing.
Only transfer money or transfer once you have seen the car and want to buy it.
Make a history check
Car history checkers are an essential weapon in your online shopping store. Various companies offer them at a fraction of the cost, and it is a surefire way to check that a car is free of charge even if it is pre-installed.
If you are seriously considering buying a car, then it is highly recommended that you get a history check so that you do not get caught up in the long run.
Remember, an HPI check will not show you details about your car service history or usage. Therefore, you will need to see the services manual and logbook. If you would like to know more about HPI checks, then check out our guidelines here and there.
Watch the clock
Another scam that is often used is a watch or a process to reduce the mileage recorded on a car display. Although less common with the advent of onboard computers, the clock is still a way for people to sell cars for more than they should.
Again, an online check can help verify car distance, as well as a V5 document review. Also, check out the interior – does it look more worn than waiting for a mile? It can be a sign that everything is not as it seems.
Get to know the seller
It always helps to buy from a certified dealer, but there is no reason why private purchases can’t be safe and sound with it. It is good to take the phone and talk to the seller, but if you are not sure, then it is a good idea to ask to see the V5 of the car and make sure the address on it is the same as the sellers.
What if you suspect you have been a victim of online fraud?
If you think you have been the victim of online fraud, the first thing you should do is stay calm. The first you should do is to report the matter to the police and they will address you to the organisation that deals with online fraud.Â
In the meantime, it is advisable to contact your bank or construction community if you notice any unusual or unauthorized activity in your account. They will be able to freeze your account, cancel your card and give you a new one. Once you have informed them of the matter, your bank will not charge you for any other authorized withdrawals and will refund you if any withdrawals are made.
Buying a car is a very exciting experience and when that you need to be very careful about. In today’s age, it is very easy to buy a car online, but this is a very expensive purchase and it’s worth doing some due diligence to make sure you don;lt get scammed. Take the above tips into account to make sure you secure your car without a hitch.