Navigating online car purchases and identifying secure payment methods.
The market for used cars online is growing rapidly, but so are the potential risks. How can you find your dream car without getting scammed?
Firstly, never provide a down payment or deposit to a private seller when purchasing a used car online. This is the most crucial rule to remember when shopping for a used car online, as doing so might leave you out of both money and a car.
Scams are prevalent in the online car market. Therefore, it's important to carefully evaluate the situation before completing a transaction. The "Secure Online Car Buying" initiative, which includes ADAC and the police's criminal prevention departments, recommends this practice.
If you suspect dubious advertisements on sales platforms, report them to the platform operator. Additionally, you can report them to your local police department to protect other potential buyers. Experts also offer guidance on safe payment methods and tips for avoiding scams.
Inspect the Used Car Beforehand
If possible, inspect the vehicle before making a purchase and arrange for a test drive with the seller. It's a good idea to meet during daylight hours and, if purchasing from a private seller, bring along a witness.
Ask the seller about any known defects, as not all may be immediately apparent.
Here are some additional inspection tips:
- Check the odometer reading.
- Inspect the tire tread.
- Request the service booklet.
- Request the vehicle documents.
If it's not feasible to inspect the vehicle in person, be sure to safeguard yourself. Some car sales platforms offer specialized services for this purpose, and may even provide a 14-day return period.
Choose a Secure Payment Method
- When buying a car in Germany, bank transfers cannot be easily reversed. With this in mind, it's recommended to use secure payment methods. Here are a few options and some key points to consider:
- Hand over cash only after signing the purchase agreement, receiving the keys, and obtaining the vehicle documents. To minimize carrying large amounts of cash, meet near a bank branch.
- Or: Use SEPA instant transfers offered by many banks. With this option, you can transfer money to the seller almost instantly, typically using only your mobile device. Some banks may charge fees for this feature.
- Another option available on some sales platforms is "Safe Pay." Buyers and sellers register through the platform, and the buyer transfers the payment into a secure account. The buyer only releases the funds after the purchase is complete, allowing the seller to receive the transfer. If the buyer decides not to proceed with the purchase, they'll receive their money back.
Avoid these Payment Methods:
- PayPal explicitly excludes motorized vehicles. As a result, neither buyers nor sellers receive protection in such transactions.
- Cash transfers without a bank account are also risky, as the initiative warns, as there is no refund option in case of fraud.
It's essential to be cautious when using online platforms for buying used cars, especially considerate of the increasing number of consumer scams. One critical rule is never to provide a down payment or deposit before physically inspecting the car and completing the purchase.
On the other hand, if a witness and a personal inspection are not feasible, opt for reputable online platforms that ensure secure payment methods and offer a return policy. Safeguarding your transaction in such a way helps prevent becoming a victim of online car scams.
