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Buying a car – you should know these tricks of scammers
Buying a car – take a closer look when buying a used car
Who decides today for the purchase of a used car interested, will not only be confronted with the question of the suitable model. If the "perfect car" has been found after lengthy research, the signing of the purchase agreement as a rule around a real proof of confidence.
The car buying tricks of the fraudsters and how to spot them
Because: even if it is often easy for laypersons to determine the loan amount on the basis of various sources from the internet, using special key data, such as for example mileage, year of manufacture, first registration and co. Finding out whether a price might be justified, there is a real risk that hidden defects in the used car might be concealed.
This, in turn, can usually only be assessed by an expert on site, who can save the potential buyer a long journey and thus a lot of money, time and trouble.
But with which tricks is actually worked here exactly? And if necessary, are there ways to repair the verify the seller’s statements?
Trick number 1: concealing paint damage
used cars, in the context of which the adjective "accident-free" are naturally particularly attractive to interested parties, buyers should not forget that. Unfortunately, this fact also tempts, possible paint damage and to overlook the corresponding touch-ups.
In the first step, however, it is particularly important to distinguish between "accident" and "minor" damage to distinguish. Because just because a vehicle has not yet been involved in a classic accident does not mean that there is no damage to the paintwork. Or, to put it another way: even "accident-free" vehicles may have been repainted – for example, as a result of a parking damage.
Unfortunately, the relevant work is not always obvious to the layman. Was done cleanly and with high quality products repainted, special lamps and similar equipment are needed to locate treated areas.
trick number 2: the "perfect" underbody sealant
The mere fact that no paint damage, stone chips or similar are visible to the layman does not mean that a car must be in perfect condition.
If, for example, you want to drive your car via mobile.De or autoscout24.When you buy, you often take the time to compare price and performance compare and have a look at the car together with the seller on the spot, forgets in this context, however, that in the course of time, especially on the underside, considerable damage may have occurred.
A underbody protection in need of repair is not always the result of an accident. In fact, external influences such as snow or road salt can also cause this particularly sensitive area of a car to suffer. Even though many used cars now come with a underbody sealing If the paint has been applied to a vehicle, buyers should not forget that it must be renewed regularly to ensure comprehensive protection.
In order to determine the actual assess the condition of the underbody protection To be able to do this, you need not only the right equipment, but also expert know-how and the necessary experience, and you need to be on site. After all, not everyone wants to spend a lot of time and travel a long way to get there, especially if the appropriate technical expertise is lacking.
trick number 3: the quick sale and the omission of a wheel alignment
Regardless of whether the car of your choice is a comparatively luxurious model or a beginner’s car, it is particularly important not to let yourself be rushed into the final purchase decision. Especially if a seller is particularly keen to make sure that the purchase contract is signed quickly – and in the worst case without a test drive, it is time to question its seriousness.
At the same time, however, it is also important not to be deceived by a positive first impression in the course of said test drive. Because: defects in the area of the axle often only become apparent at second glance.
Especially if the previous owner(s) have been less careful with the car in the past, there is a high probability of wear and tear.
A uncomplicated wheel alignment provides clarity here.
Trick number 4: the speedometer manipulation
No question: cars with a comparatively low mileage often seem attractive. Accordingly, it is self-explanatory why many fraudsters start exactly at this point and turn back the digital speedometer reading with the help of relevant software. Depending on how many kilometers are thus concealed, there is often nothing standing in the way of an increase in the purchase price by several thousand euros.
Unfortunately, it is often difficult, especially for the layman, to find out whether a speedometer has been tampered with. Still, there are clues that can help experts assess how realistic the mileage in question actually is. Thus, among other things:
Signs of wear on the pedals
The condition of the windows (especially in the front area)
The fact that the odometer reading may have been fiddled with.
Another However, the service booklet can also be a point of reference respectively the information on the last oil change offer. After all, not only the date is recorded here, but also the mileage.
If this is higher than the mileage indicated on the speedometer at the time, it is definitely time to become suspicious.
What are the risks associated with these tricks?
Hidden defects, which was only after signing the purchase contract show are not only annoying, but can also be associated with various risks.
These can be seen, among other things, in an excessively high purchase price and often also with regard to the safety provided.
That’s why more and more buyers of used cars are deciding to buy a car that they have found, for example, via an online advertisement, to be assessed by an expert car mechanic on the spot. On the basis of a final appraisal, it can then be clearly seen to what extent the information is correct and the purchase price is justified.
The buyers in spe profit in this connection from:
The possibility of being able to better assess a fixed price
Competent know how
A significant time saving
The advantage of not having to make the long journey to the respective sales location for nothing, if necessary.
Everyday life in the automotive sector shows – especially due to the numerous models and their characteristic features – that it usually takes an expert assessment to determine the adequately assess the condition of the respective car to be able to.
this is the only way to create a convincing basis for a well-founded purchase without subsequent negative surprises.