Is this used car deal a scam?
Paste the listing or your messages from Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji or AutoTrader. A free AI check points out common red flags and what to ask next. Works for buyers and sellers.
Common used-car scams in Canada
Deposit before you see the car
The seller asks for an e-transfer, gift card or crypto “to hold it” before you have seen the car or the papers. Real sellers can wait until you show up.
The car is far away and an “agent” will ship it
The seller is out of town, deployed or overseas, and a shipping company or escrow site handles payment. Those sites are often fake.
Overpayment with a cheque
A buyer sends a certified cheque for more than the price and asks you to send back the difference. The cheque bounces days later.
Curbsiders
Unlicensed dealers pose as private sellers to hide accident damage, rolled-back odometers or liens. Many ads from the same phone number are a clue.
Verification code requests
Someone asks you to read back a code sent to your phone “to prove you’re real”. That code is often for taking over your account.
Price far below market
A deal that looks thousands too cheap is the bait. Check what similar cars sell for before you get excited.
Not sure what the car is actually worth? Run a free price check or browse the used car price guides.