Car scams in Abuja: 10 Top Tips to Avoid Fraud and Buy Safely

Discovering car scams in Abuja (or any location) requires vigilance and familiarity with common fraudulent tactics. Here are some tips to help you identify and avoid car scams in Abuja (or any location):

1. Unbelievably Low Prices

• Red Flag: A car listed for a price significantly lower than its market value.
• Action: Research the average market price for the vehicle model and year you’re interested in.

2. Lack of Proper Documentation

• Red Flag: Sellers who cannot provide key documents like:
  • Vehicle registration.
  • Customs clearance documents (if imported).
  • Proof of ownership.
• Action: Insist on verifying all documents and cross-check them with relevant authorities.

Read also:

• Why Hexoautos Nig Ltd is your must trusted partner on your next car purchase
• 10 Essential Safety Features Every Family Car Should Have
• The Role of Hexoautos.ng in Protecting Buyers from Car Scams

3. Push for Immediate Payment

• Red Flag: A seller demanding full payment upfront without allowing proper inspection or verification.
• Action: Avoid making payments until:
  • You have seen the vehicle in person.
  • Conducted a proper inspection.
  • Verified ownership and other necessary paperwork.

4. Online Scams

• Red Flag: Sellers claiming to be out of town, asking for payments to “hold” the car or for transport costs.
• Action: Always meet the seller in person and inspect the car before any financial transactions.

5. Faulty or Cloned Vehicles

• Red Flag: Cars with tampered Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) or mechanical issues hidden by temporary fixes.
• Action:
  • Use a professional mechanic to inspect the car.
  • Verify the VIN on official platforms for its history.

6. Fake Websites or Listings

• Red Flag: Fraudulent websites or listings imitating legitimate platforms like Hexoautos.ng.
• Action:
  • Check the website’s authenticity.
  • Look for verified reviews or a physical office address.

7. Stolen Vehicles

• Red Flag: A seller unwilling to meet at a public location or avoiding police presence.
• Action: Conduct a background check on the car using the National Vehicle Identification System (NVIS) in Nigeria or involve local authorities.

8. Unrealistic Payment Options

• Red Flag: Sellers insisting on unusual payment methods (e.g., cryptocurrency or wire transfers to foreign accounts).
• Action: Stick to secure and traceable payment methods.

9. Ghost Sellers

• Red Flag: Sellers who disappear once you ask detailed questions or insist on an inspection.
• Action: Treat lack of communication as a major red flag and avoid proceeding with such sellers.

10. Incomplete Sale Agreements

• Red Flag: Transactions carried out without a written agreement or receipt.
• Action: Insist on:
  • A legally binding sales agreement.
  • A receipt for any payments made.

BONUS TIP: Use Trusted Platforms

• Opt for reputable platforms like Hexoautos.ng where sellers and buyers are vetted to reduce fraud risks. Verified listings and secure payment methods help ensure safer transactions.

If you suspect fraud, report it to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) or local police for assistance.

Looking for affordable cars to buy in Nigeria click Here or send a WhatsApp message to HexoAutos @ +2348149754554