Beware of Car Buyer Scams

Selling a classic or collector car online attracts serious enthusiasts from around the world, but it can also attract scammers who rely on urgency, unfamiliar payment methods, or “standard process” language to catch sellers off guard.

The two most common scams we see fall into predictable patterns: 

1. Fake Vehicle History Reports. The buyer will ask you to pay for a VIN or vehicle history report through a fake website often with a promise to reimburse you later. The website will compromise your payment information.
   • Carfax.com, Bumper.com and CarVX.com are trusted reports that are standard in the industry. A request for the seller to run any other report should be treated as suspicious.
   • Known websites involved in this scam include:
     AutifyReport.com, TrueVinReport.com, ReportInspector.com
2. Over-payments and shipping arrangements. The over-eager buyer will provide payment (typically a bank check) for more than the agreed-upon price and ask you to pay the extra money to their transportation company before the check clears. They typically do not haggle on price and are aggressive without needing to inspect or view the car prior to purchase.
   
   

Red Flags to Watch For

Certain behaviors show up again and again in fraudulent inquiries:

• Urgency or pressure. Scammers often push for quick action to prevent you from verifying details. They will rush the transaction and not require any verification about the car.
  
  
• Requests for payment. Legitimate buyers do not overpay and then ask for money back to cover shipping or fees, or additional services.
  
  
• Unusual payment methods. Requests for gift cards or other unconventional forms of payment should be treated as a red flag.
  
  
• Reluctance to meet in person. Serious buyers are usually eager to see the car in person or arrange a proper inspection. 
  
  

How to Protect Yourself

Most scams fail if you slow the process down and stick to a few simple rules:

• Use secure payment methods. We strongly recommend using secure, traceable options like verified bank transfers or reputable escrow services. Many sellers choose services such as KeySavvy or DealNow to add an extra layer of protection.
  
  
• Never pay third parties. Sellers should never send money to a buyer, their shipper, or anyone else involved in the transaction. Legitimate buyers handle their own shipping and related costs. If you are asked to provide your information to a website or person that you do not trust, use caution.
  
  
• Wait for full payment clearance. If you accept a check or money order, do not release the vehicle until your bank confirms the funds have fully cleared.
  
  
• Trust your instincts. If something feels off, pause the transaction and reassess. Scammers rely on momentum. Real buyers respect caution.
  
  

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

If you encounter suspicious behavior or believe you may be dealing with a scam:

• Stop communicating with the buyer immediately.
• Do not click links or provide payment or banking information.
• Do not send money or release the vehicle.
• Report the interaction to pitcrew@classic.com with as much detail as possible.
• If you entered credit card or banking information, contact your bank or card provider right away.

Scammers frequently change tactics, names, and websites, so staying cautious and informed is the best way to protect yourself.

Final Thoughts

Scams can be discouraging, but with vigilance and caution, you can safely navigate the process of selling your car online. Always prioritize secure payment methods, rely on trusted platforms, and never hesitate to seek advice if something seems amiss.

Stay safe and happy selling!