Vehicle fraud is unusually costly because the amounts are large and the payments are often irreversible transfers. Three patterns account for most of it.

The vehicle that does not exist

An advertisement with genuine photographs taken from another listing, a seller who is travelling or deployed abroad, and a request for a deposit to hold the vehicle or arrange shipping. Sometimes an escrow service is proposed — operated by the seller. The rule is simple: no deposit for a vehicle you have not stood next to.

Outstanding finance

If a vehicle is still subject to a finance agreement, the finance company retains an interest in it and can repossess it from you after you have paid the seller in full. This is among the most common expensive surprises in private sales, and it is entirely preventable with a history check against the vehicle identification number.

Misrepresented condition and history

  • Mileage inconsistent with service records or the vehicle's general condition.
  • A history of write-off, flood or structural damage not disclosed.
  • Documents where the registered keeper's name differs from the seller with no explanation.
  • A VIN plate that appears disturbed, or numbers that do not match across locations on the vehicle.

Practical protection

  • Run a paid history check — it costs a fraction of a percent of the purchase price.
  • Meet at the address on the registration document, not a car park.
  • Match the VIN on the vehicle to the documents, in person.
  • Pay by a method with a trace and, where possible, dispute rights. Avoid cash and instant transfers for large amounts.
  • Have an independent inspection for anything expensive. Sellers who resist one are telling you something.