Consumer Car Buying Advice Blog

The internet has changed the way we buy cars. It has also changed the way some unscrupulous sellers can get rid of wrecked and damaged cars…

Have you ever heard the word “curbstoning”?

In its broadest terms, a “curbstoner” is anyone who sells a car that is not a licensed dealer. While there are many legitimate private sellers in the market who sell their own cars, a curbstoner is anyone who buys a car and then turns around and sells it without owning it for any length of time. Many of these curbstoned vehicles have been wrecked or water damaged in other states, had their titles washed and are being sold to unsuspecting buyers.

In addition to being listed in the classified sections of newspapers, the internet has allowed these sellers to go national. Ebay, autotrader and cars.com all contain ads from these sellers. Although all these online portals have policies against this practice, it is impossible to catch all the culprits. Also remember that these sellers don’t comply with state or federal laws and if you buy from one of them you are not protected by any consumer laws.

Are there any car buying tips to avoid this kind of trap?

According to the Maryland Department of Motor Vehicles, there are a number of ways that you can spot a possible curbstoner:

•    The license plates are out-of-state, issued temporarily, are dealer tags, or missing altogether.
•    The seller admits he/she is a dealer but says it’s a personal vehicle.
•    The seller insists on a cash payment.
•    The vehicle’s title is not in the seller’s name.
•    The seller offers to do the tag and title paperwork.
•    The title is recently issued, or the seller refuses to show you the title.
•    The seller gives only a pager or cell phone number.
•    The same phone number is listed for multiple vehicles in the newspaper or outdoor location.
•    The vehicles are for sale by the roadside, in vacant lots, at shopping centers, or in driveways.
•    The seller wants to meet at a different location other than his or her residence.
In addition to all these tips, there is one other important thing to keep in mind, sort of a consumer’s “golden rule” to buying anything: there was a reason that you were attracted to this particular vehicle and it was probably the price. If the deal looks too good to be true, it probably is!
The best buying tip of all: buy from a licensed dealer!
Automobile dealers are regulated by both state and federal governments. These dealers must maintain a physical place of business and sell only from that location. Most dealers – especially new car dealers – have been doing business in their respective communities for years. Not only are they here now, they will be there tomorrow, as well.
How Auto Credit Express can help you
Our web site, autocreditexpress.com, can help you in your car buying decision. Especially if you need a bad credit car loan, our web site explains the application and buying process. In addition, our nationwide network of affiliated dealers are all licensed in their respective states and all of them specialize in financing for credit challenged customers.
Once you’ve had the chance to research the process, you can fill out our secure application in the comfort and privacy of your home. Remember: here at Auto Credit Express, we want you “on the road” to better credit!

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