Shopping for a used car online can feel like scrolling through dating profiles—some look great, some are suspiciously perfect, and others send up red flags right away. Whether you’re on Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, or a used car site, not every listing is what it seems. And when you’re handing over thousands of dollars, it pays to read between the lines.
Let’s break down the common red flags you should watch out for in used car listings online—so you don’t end up with a lemon.
1. Super Low Price That’s “Too Good to Be True”
If a car is listed way below market value with no clear reason, it’s usually a warning sign. While deals do happen, drastically cheap cars can point to:
- Major mechanical issues
- A written-off history
- Odometer tampering
- Stolen vehicles
One buyer we spoke to found a 2018 Mazda 3 listed for just $3,000. The seller said they were moving overseas “tomorrow” and needed it gone. Sounded urgent. But a quick check showed the car had been written off due to flood damage in another state. The low price was no coincidence—it was bait.
Tip: Compare prices for the same model/year/mileage. If one is way off, dig deeper.
2. No Registration or Roadworthy Mentioned
A legit seller will usually include rego details and whether the car comes with a roadworthy certificate (RWC). If they don’t mention either, or say things like:
- “Just needs a few things for RWC”
- “Sold as-is, no rego”
- “Buyer to sort RWC”
…they might be offloading a car that won’t pass inspection without major repairs.
Tip: Ask straight up if it has a current RWC. If they dodge the question or say “you can get one easily,” be cautious.
3. Poor Quality Photos (or None at All)
Blurry, dark, or cropped photos can be a big red flag. Some dodgy sellers purposely avoid showing:
- Rust patches
- Dents or body damage
- Dashboard warning lights
- Worn interiors
Even worse—some listings only show stock photos pulled from the internet. That’s a major no-go.
Tip: Always ask for clear, recent photos of:
- Front, back, both sides
- Interior (especially driver’s seat and dashboard)
- Odometer reading
- Engine bay
If they hesitate or keep making excuses like “camera not working,” you might be dealing with a scammer—or someone hiding the truth.
4. Vague Descriptions or Overly Fluffy Language
Pay attention to how the ad is written. Sellers who are honest will usually give clear details about the car’s condition, history, and servicing. But if the description is full of buzzwords like:
- “Drives like new”
- “Mechanically A1”
- “Perfect car for someone who knows what they’re doing”
…without any real substance, it’s worth being cautious. It could be a sign they’re glossing over issues or trying to talk it up too much.
5. No Service History or Logbook
If the seller says there’s “no service history” or “can’t find the logbook,” take that seriously. A car without documented servicing may not have been maintained properly—and you won’t know what’s been done or what hasn’t.
Tip: A full logbook with regular service stamps (especially from a dealership) adds real value and peace of mind. Don’t overlook it.
6. Pressure to Act Fast or Pay Deposit First
Scammers often try to rush buyers into sending a deposit before they’ve even seen the car. They’ll use excuses like:
- “Lots of interest, need to secure buyer today”
- “I’m overseas, but my cousin can drop it off”
- “Can’t show the car, but can deliver after payment”
🚫 No legit seller will demand money sight unseen.
Tip: Never send money without seeing the car in person. If they push you to “act now,” walk away.
7. Inconsistent Details
If the listing says one thing, but photos or chat messages say another, that’s a red flag. Common inconsistencies include:
- Different model year in text vs. photo
- Odometer reading not matching description
- VIN number not provided (or doesn’t match car type)
Tip: Always ask for the VIN and do a PPSR check. It can tell you if the car has finance owing, has been written off, or is stolen.
Stay Smart and Safe When Car Shopping
Online car listings can be a goldmine—but only if you know what to watch out for. If something feels off, trust your gut. Better to miss out on a sketchy deal than end up with a busted vehicle (or worse, no vehicle at all).
Before You Buy…
If dealing with private sellers feels like too much hassle, we get it. That’s why our cash-for-cars service makes things easy, especially if you’re trading in an old car or just want a no-stress way to sell. No time-wasters, no pressure tactics—just real people offering fair value and quick pickups.
Got a car to sell? Reach out today and let’s make it simple.
If you are in Seaford, Victoria 3198, and looking for a car removal service, this is the best way to visit us.
28 Station St, Cranbourne VIC 3977