Logo for the Manitoba Used Car Dealers Association
Logo for the Manitoba Used Car Dealers Association
Go to content
BEWARE OF CURBSIDERS
When shopping for a used vehicle in Manitoba.

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.

How to Spot a Curbsider
  • is not named on the vehicle registration permit
  • they refuse to give you their full name
  • won't let an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle
  • indicates there may be more than one vehicle for sale
  • the seller may want to meet you in a parking lot or the side of the road

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!


Manitoba UCDA
Quick Contact Form...

MEMBER SUPPORT | CONSUMER QUESTIONS
Contact us by using this form and we will be in touch with you.
Your privacy is important to us. We do not share, publish or sell your contact information.
Back to content