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Security Advice

  Auto 1st is an advertising portal

It does not own or individually inspect any of the vehicles for sale on the site and cannot accept any liability or responsibility arising from any reliance on information published on this website. Please see our Terms of Use for further information.

Buying a car safely

At Auto 1st, your safety is our priority. While we provide a platform to connect buyers and sellers, it's important to follow some basic safety tips when purchasing a car to ensure a smooth, secure transaction.

Follow these key steps for a safe buying experience:

  1. Always meet the seller in person at a safe, public location. Avoid meeting at private addresses, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.
  2. Thoroughly check the car, bike, or van before making any decisions. Look for signs of damage or wear and ask the seller for any relevant maintenance or service records.
  3. Always request the vehicle identification number (VIN) and run a vehicle history check to verify if the car has been in any accidents or has outstanding issues.
  4. Don’t hesitate to negotiate the price based on your inspection and the market value of the vehicle. Be prepared to walk away if the deal doesn’t feel right.
  5. Always handle payment in person. Avoid wire transfers, checks, or money orders for payment. Cash or a secure bank transfer are safer options.
  6. Be wary of deals that seem “too good to be true.” Scammers often offer vehicles at unusually low prices or create fake listings to trick buyers. If something feels off, trust your instincts.

Do your research

When buying a car, knowledge is your best tool. Auto 1st is here to help you make informed decisions, but it’s essential that you take the time to do your research before committing to a purchase. Here’s how you can ensure you’re getting the best deal and the right car for your needs:

  1. Know Your Budget
  2. Understand the Market Value
  3. Check Vehicle History
  4. Compare Listings
  5. Research the Seller
  6. Inspect the Vehicle Thoroughly
  7. Read Reviews

Check all the necessary documents

When buying a car, it’s crucial to ensure that all the necessary documents are in order to avoid any future issues. Auto 1st encourages buyers to thoroughly review the documentation before completing a purchase. Here’s a checklist of the essential documents you should check before finalizing the deal:

  1. Vehicle Title
  2. Bill of Sale
  3. Vehicle Identification Number
  4. Emissions and Safety Inspection Certificates
  5. Service and Maintenance Records
  6. Current Registration
  7. Proof of Insurance
  8. Recalls and Warranty Information
  9. Power of Attorney (if applicable)

Carry out a proper inspection

Before committing to buying a vehicle, it's essential to perform a thorough inspection to ensure the car is in good condition and worth the investment. A proper inspection can save you from future headaches and unexpected repair costs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you carry out a comprehensive inspection:

  1. Exterior Inspection
  2. Interior Inspection
  3. Under the Hood (Engine Bay)
  4. Check the Mileage
  5. Listen for Unusual Sounds
  6. Verify the VIN
  7. Professional Inspection (Optional but Recommended)

Use safe payment methods

When buying a car, ensuring the payment process is secure is just as important as the vehicle inspection. Auto 1st prioritizes your safety by encouraging buyers and sellers to use safe, trustworthy payment methods. Follow these guidelines to protect yourself and avoid falling victim to fraud.

  1. Cash (In-Person Transactions)
  2. Bank Transfer
  3. Certified Bank Checks or Money Orders
  4. Avoid Bank Transfers to Unknown Accounts
  5. Avoid Untraceable Payment Methods
  6. Get Everything in Writing

Reporting a fraudulent ad

If you would like to report an advertisement you believe is fraudulent, please notify us through our contact form.

If you have been a victim of fraud, we would advise you to notify Action Fraud in the first instance.

Useful organisations

There are many sources of additional information about how to keep safe when buying a car; we have listed a selection below.

Action Fraud

To report cyber crime or fraud, visit Action Fraud.

Fraud alert

For advice on criminal cashback and other frauds that may be attempted against vehicle buyers and how to report spam emails, go to www.met.police.uk/fraud.

Citizens Advice

For advice from Citizens Advice, visit Citizens Advice or call 08454 04 05 06.

MOT test certificates

Compare your MOT certificate's details against what's recorded online to make sure it's genuine. Visit www.gov.uk/check-mot-status or call 0300 790 6802.

VSTAG

For further advice and information on buying or selling a used car, including fraudulent advertisements and how to stay safe online, visit the Vehicle Safe Trading Advisory Group (VSTAG).

Contact us

At Auto 1st, we value your feedback, inquiries, and concerns. Whether you're looking to ask a question, need assistance, or want to share your experience, we’re here to help!

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