Classic vehicle owners can avoid used car scam by following three tips

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Classic car fans can avoid being scammed when buying historic models by following a range of simple advice, according to an expert.

Collectable cars are likely to be more expensive than ordinary second-hand vehicles meaning drivers have more at stake when making a purchase.

The rarity and emotion behind some classic vehicles is likely to have an impact with motorists often desperate to secure a limited edition model before it is too late.

However, EllingsonClassicCars has warned following three tips could save drivers’ blushes when securing a historic model.

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Price

An expert at EllingsonClassicCars has warned drivers that price is one of the most important areas to consider before splashing the cash. Speaking on their YouTube channel, they said: “Three reasons or ways not to get scammed when you want to buy a classic collectable vehicle.

“Number one. Price. If the price is too good you know it’s probably not real. You just don’t do that.” Lancaster Insurance also urged drivers to seriously consider pricing when looking at buying a classic car.

The group added: “You are unlikely to be getting a Jaguar E-Type Series 2 in good condition for less than £20,000, no matter what any ‘seller’ promises. However, it can be hard to price classic cars, as so many are unique. So, you do get genuine adverts listing absolute bargains.

“And many fraudsters know that offering a pristine Porsche at a knockdown price will set alarm bells ringing. Instead, they make their offer seem just a little better than the competition.”

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Meet the sellers

EllingsonClassicCars has urged buyers to chat to the sellers before driving down to collect a historic model.

Speaking to a seller may also help potential buyers learn more about the car which could influence a decision to purchase the model.

They commented: “Number two you can Facetime or video chat or whatever with the people. That gives them some credibility and you know then that maybe they are real.”

Use a reputable seller

EllingsonClassicCars said: “Deal with reputable sites that you can deal with… Legitimate sites. Check them out as those people have reputations to uphold and they are going to do a good job.”

The RAC also stressed that reputable used car sellers could end up saving drivers money in the long run. They added: “A main dealer or garage is likely to have put a used car through a rigorous inspection and offer a good warranty (usually six or 12 months).

“While this will come at a price – increasing the outright cost of buying the car – it can offer you priceless peace of mind in knowing the car has been thoroughly checked out and is covered by a warranty.

“Buying from a driveway trader could save you these higher upfront costs, but may prove to be a false economy as the car could end up costing you more in repairs.”

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