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If you choose to buy a used car privately, be aware of curbsiders.
Curbsiders are unregistered dealers posing as private sellers who sell misrepresented vehicles to unsuspecting consumers. They may sell you a rebuilt or defective vehicle, with a tampered odometer or even with outstanding liens. Look out for the following signs to see if you’re dealing with a curbsider.
is not named on the vehicle registration permit
won't let an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle
indicates there may be more than one vehicle for sale
Curbsiders are usually advertising the "family car" for sale, using a story such as:
“I’m moving out of the country.”
“I’m getting a company car.”
“It belonged to my Aunt, but she passed away.”
When you respond to an ad, say “I’m calling about the car you advertised.” Curbers will often say “Which one?”…Stop…You’ve got a curber.