TOP TEN RED FLAGS TO SPOT WHEN BUYING A USED CAR

When buying a used car, common risks include hidden damage, fake mileage, and being sold a car at an unfair price. Other research has shown that 400,000 Brits were at risk of buying a car with incorrect or misleading mileage readings in 2024 alone.

With scams on the rise, here are the top red flags buyers should look for when browsing second-hand car listings online:



1. The picture is blurry or low resolution - Damage may be concealed, be especially wary of only one camera angle.

2. There is no image of the interior, mileage, or engine bay - Key parts of the car are missing from the listing likely means there are issues or it has been tampered with.

3. There are important missing details - Not showing the MOT, or ownership history, or service records can indicate that the seller is concealing issues.

4. The listing overuses phrases - "First to see will buy", "runs well", or "cheap for quick sale" probably means there are expensive or dangerous issues with the car.

5. The seller has poor grammar and spelling - Often reflects a lack of care on the seller's behalf.

6. Photos show the car dirty - Dirt may be a cover-up for missing spots of paint on the car's body.

7. The car is parked tightly against a wall or in dark lighting - The seller may be trying to conceal damage or an issue.

8. The price is too good to be true - A listing p...