Selling a used car can be a straightforward process, but scammers are constantly finding new ways to deceive unsuspecting sellers. One particularly deceptive car scam involves fraudsters making a vehicle appear faulty to pressure owners into selling it for a fraction of its true value.
How The Car Scam Works
This car scam typically follows a pattern. Fraudsters pose as interested buyers and request to inspect the vehicle. During the inspection, one scammer distracts the seller—asking to see paperwork or discussing minor details—while another secretly tampers with the car’s engine.
According to This Is Money, a common trick involves pouring oil into the coolant system, causing the engine to emit smoke when started. This creates the illusion of a serious mechanical failure, leading the scammers to claim the car is worthless and offer to buy it for scrap at a significantly reduced price.
Real-life Cases
Several instances of this car scam have been reported across the UK. In one case, a BMW owner in Norfolk caught two scammers on CCTV attempting to con him into selling his vehicle for £2,000—far below its market value, says This Is Money. Similar scams have been documented in Manchester and Kent, where fraudsters used the same dirty oil trick to manipulate sellers into accepting lowball offers.
Why This Car Scam Is Effective
The psychological pressure applied by scammers plays a crucial role in their success. Sellers, especially those unfamiliar with mechanical issues, may panic when they see smoke coming from their engine. The fraudsters then act concerned, reinforcing the idea that the car is on the verge of breaking down.
Many sellers, eager to offload their vehicle quickly, accept the scammer’s offer without seeking a second opinion. This allows criminals to acquire cars at a fraction of their value, often reselling them for a substantial profit after cleaning the engine and removing the tampered oil.
How To Protect Yourself
To avoid falling victim to this car scam, sellers should take the following precautions:
- Stay vigilant during inspections – Never allow potential buyers to inspect your car unsupervised. Keep an eye on all interactions, especially under the bonnet.
- Be wary of rushed offers – If a buyer suddenly claims your car has a major fault and offers to buy it for scrap, take a step back and assess the situation.
- Get a second opinion – If a supposed fault appears during a test drive, consult a trusted mechanic before making any decisions.
Use reputable selling platforms – Selling through established dealerships or verified online marketplaces can reduce the risk of encountering scammers.
Reporting Scams
If you suspect you’ve been targeted by this car scam, report the incident to Action Fraud or your local police department. Providing details of the scammers, including descriptions and any recorded interactions, can help authorities track down fraudsters and prevent further cases.
Considerations
The car scam involving fake mechanical faults is a growing concern for private sellers. By staying informed and cautious, motorists can protect themselves from falling prey to deceptive tactics. Always verify claims of vehicle faults, remain alert during inspections, and seek professional advice before accepting any suspicious offers.
Selling a car should be a fair and transparent process—don’t let scammers take advantage of your trust. Stay vigilant, and ensure you get the true value for your vehicle.
If you want to find out more about some of the most common car scams and how to avoid them, check out our article right here.
