RCMP Issues Buyer Beware Advisory On Purchasing Used Vehicles

The RCMP has issued a public advisory after several used vehicles recently purchased were later determined stolen based on altered Vehicle Identification Numbers.

Police say they’ve been working on files where citizens have been purchasing used vehicles, often at reasonably good prices, and when they go to register, they learn the VIN is fake and the vehicle in fact has been stolen. The car is then repossessed, and the buyer has lost their money.

RCMP say fraudulent deals are being made on secondary markets online but also at used car dealerships where the dealership is unaware until they sell the vehicle, and the new owner tries to register it.

Inspector Eugene Lum says it is always recommended for vehicle buyers to meet their seller in person, in a safe location, bring a friend or family member, and go for a test drive.

Another thing to watch for - police say there are 2 VINs on each vehicle under/on the windshield and driver’s door jamb. Check to ensure the VINs match.

There are also free online tools to make sure VINs on a manufacturer’s website line up with your vehicle, while seeing if there are any recalls or other associated information to that VIN.

Inspector Lum says be mindful of the asking price and that if the price looks too good to be true, it usually is.

To learn more, visit Royal Canadian Mounted Police.