Navigating the world of motoring can be a rewarding experience with the right knowledge. However, it's crucial to stay alert for scams, as consumer advocate What Car? has reported an increase in fraudulent activities in the second-hand car market.
To help you avoid these scams, we consulted experts from What Car?, Which?, and the motor industry publication Car Dealer magazine.
Beware of Scammers: Rising Motoring Fraud
One common scam to watch out for is the 'cut & shut.' This involves taking parts from different vehicles of the same make and model that have been written off due to accidents and welding them together to create a single functioning car.
To spot such vehicles, check that all the car's panels align properly without irregularities like bumps and ensure the paintwork is uniform and consistent across the vehicle.
Additionally, use a small magnet to run over areas of the car. If the magnet doesn't stick, it could indicate the use of filler, suggesting the car has been in a collision.
For more tips on how to protect yourself, read related articles on topics like fuel pricing scams and vehicle insurance savings.
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