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The 6 Most Common Junk Car Scams: How to Protect Yourself

Nov 26, 2024

Selling your scrap vehicle often feels more like a risk and a hassle than a benefit, especially with so many scammers ready to devise the most dishonest practices to take advantage of unsuspecting sellers.

Mr. Junk Cars is the most reputable scrap car buyer in the entire DMV area. As such, we’ve compiled the 6 most common junk car scams, plus expert tips on how to sell a car without getting scammed (that go way beyond reviewing if the company has a license).

Continue reading before selling your car!

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1. Is the Offer Too Good to Be True? Then It Probably Is

Is the junk car buyer offering a high price for your scrap vehicle without even inspecting it? That’s a major sign you’re talking to a scammer. Most scammers will use this tactic to lure you in, only to lower their cash offer at the last minute, with excuses of “unexpected” issues with the car.

Pro Tips:
Research the car’s current value before starting negotiations. If the deal seems unrealistically good, it most likely is. Legitimate buyers will provide reasonable offers based on the car’s condition and market value.

2. Don’t Accept Strange or Uncommitted Payment Methods

Many scams when selling junk cars online involve strange or uncommitted payment methods. These often come in the form of buyers offering to pay with a check (that later bounces), counterfeit money, false incentives (specifically non-cash incentives like coupons), or fake escrow services–even vague promises of payment later. In these cases, you could end up handing over your car and receiving no money in return.
Pro Tips: Most, if not all, reputable junkyards market their services as “exchanging a scrap car for cash,” meaning you will receive the money during the appointment. Other secure payment options are a verified cashier’s check or an instant electronic transfer. However, we still recommend confirming the payment method before transferring ownership of your vehicle, and if you find yourself between check or cash, choose the latter.

3. The Buyer Refuses to Fill In the Required Paperwork

Actual buyers know that proper documentation is non-negotiable when transferring ownership of a vehicle. Scammers, on the other hand, will try to avoid signing the title or completing the registration details and all the other required paperwork, leaving you liable for future issues, including fines or legal trouble.
Pro Tips: Be wary of buyers who are not committed to filling out the necessary paperwork and formally transferring ownership. Keep copies of the signed documents for your records, and even request a bill of sale. If the buyer hesitates, don’t be afraid to walk away from the deal.

4. They’re Charging You for Pick-Up? It’s Most Likely a Scam

 
One of the biggest scrap car buyer scams is making you pay for the towing. All junk vehicle businesses include free pick-up services, understanding that most of the cars are not in good condition to travel even small distances. If a buyer asks you to cover the towing costs upfront, they may be trying to squeeze extra money out of you.
Pro Tips: Ask about towing fees upfront. Choose a company that provides free pick-up services to avoid unnecessary charges, and ensure you have a hassle-free experience.

5. Never Bend Under a Ton of Pressure

 
High-pressure tactics are the most evident telltale of many scams. Scam artists use them to rush you to accept an offer or claim it’s a “once-in-a-lifetime deal!”. They count on you to make a quick, hasty decision without studying their offer and leave you feeling ripped off once the exchange is complete.
Pro Tips: Never feel bad about taking your time to review offers and research the buyer. All trustworthy buyers and companies will not hesitate to give you the time required to consider your options, all without pressuring you.

6. Last-Minute Changes Are a Definite “NO”

 
One of the most common scams to avoid when selling a car is last-minute changes. Many scammers will agree to your terms initially, only to change them at the last second. This might involve lowering the price, changing the payment method, or introducing hidden fees.

Pro Tips:

Document all terms in writing and refuse to accept any changes unless they are fair and mutually agreed upon. A legitimate buyer won’t ever insist on last-minute changes, and if someone tries this, don’t doubt yourself and back out of the deal. You will find something better in the near future.

Say Goodbye to Scammers! Sell Your Car with Zero Stress with Mr. Junk Cars!

Don’t fall victim to scams, and sell your car with confidence by never doubting your instincts. Remember: document all the agreed-upon terms, accept only cash, research the buyer, insist on the company filling out the required paperwork, and if the deal seems too good to be true—it is.

If you’re located in the DMV area, you can also sell your scrap car to the most reputable dealer: Mr. Junk Cars! We take pride in providing a seamless, honest, stress-free transaction, with flexible schedules, instant cash payments, and free truck towing services! Plus, our offers are the best in town, and we take any car in any condition! Contact us today to enjoy an incredible selling experience from start to finish!

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