Used car fraud has become increasingly sophisticated. These are the scams targeting buyers right now — and how to avoid becoming a victim.
The used car market involves significant sums of money changing hands between strangers, often with minimal paper trail. This makes it a magnet for fraud. Scams range from minor misrepresentation to organised criminal operations that cost victims their entire purchase price.
Clocked Mileage
Odometer fraud — resetting a car's mileage to inflate its value — is illegal but remains widespread. A car showing 40,000 miles might have actually covered 120,000. Warning signs include worn pedal rubbers inconsistent with the claimed mileage, excessive steering wheel wear, and service history gaps.
Outstanding Finance
"If you buy a car with outstanding finance, the finance company can legally repossess the vehicle — even though you paid for it in good faith. Always run a finance check before buying."
Category Write-Offs
Category S and N write-offs can be legitimately repaired and returned to the road. Category A and B cars cannot. A history check will reveal any category marker. Be very cautious of Cat S cars — while legal to own, they carry stigma at resale and may have hidden structural issues.
How to Protect Yourself
- Always run a full history check (VDI, Cazana or similar)
- Verify the seller's identity — meet at the registered address
- Never pay a deposit before viewing
- Use a bank transfer, never cash for large sums
- Walk away if anything feels wrong
Alfie has over 11 years of experience in the motor trade and founded Alfa Prestige to give buyers the insider knowledge that was previously only available to professionals.
