BBB Tip of the Week

When buying a used car from a private seller, beware of curbstoning, which occurs when a car seller pretends to be a private seller but is actually an unlicensed car dealer, selling a high volume of used cars. This is illegal in Washington state, though not highly pursued by law enforcement.

In many cases curbstoners will lie about the condition of the car to get a higher price. They may purchase a salvaged car, repair it enough to pass for good condition and sell it, never disclosing the condition, which can include flood damage or a major crash. They might roll back the odometer or even try to sell a stolen vehicle. The result is that you may overpay, need to pay for expensive repairs for safety’s sake or find out you don’t actually own it because it was stolen.

When you buy a used car from a licensed dealer, you are protected under the FTC’s Used Car Rule. The rule requires the dealer to display a Buyers Guide for the car. You can find out more by visiting http://1.usa.gov/1hZM7xF.

The Better Business Bureau shares the following signs that you are dealing with a curbstoner when buying a privately sold used car:

• The car’s title is not in the seller’s name.

• When you ask about the car’s history, the seller is vague.

• You meet at a location different from the address on the title and registration. Some private sellers may choose to meet away from their home for safety reasons, but the information should be on the car’s title.

• The seller indicates that other cars are for sale. Or you may notice multiple ads for different cars with the same phone number or email contact.

• The car’s registration does not match the VIN. Or the tags have been tampered with or are missing completely.

If you are looking to buy a car through eBay Motors, read and understand their Vehicle Purchase Plan Protection ( http://pages.motors.ebay.com/ buy/purchase-protection/) before you bid because not all cars are covered. Craigslist and other vehicle classified websites don’t offer protection plans.

To report curbstoning or other scams, visit the BBB at www.bbb.org or call (509) 455-4200.

By Erin T. Dodge, BBB editor