How to Avoid Getting Scammed When Buying a Used Car in the UAE.

When you buy a used car, it would appear that you can just go online and search through listings until you find a vehicle you like, then meet the owner of the vehicle and drive home; however, if you find yourself talking to someone who's been living in the U.A.E. for a while, they will most likely tell you, "Never trust the look of a vehicle." Just recently one of my very close friends went to check out an SUV in Al Quoz that was advertised as being in "excellent condition". The outside looked absolutely spotless, but when they performed a quick diagnostic test, it became apparent that the SUV had many engine faults, including multiple engine warning lights, transmission heat problems, and indications that the vehicle had already been in a collision; this issue is a common occurrence when buying used cars in the U.A.E. Below are four reasons why many buyers do not realize they are being scammed: 1. Refinished Panels can Conceal Accident Repairs Many sellers of used vehicles will do quick repairs to the body of the vehicle to help sell it more easily. Therefore, be vigilant when inspecting a vehicle for small inconsistencies in color, reflections being distorted, or signs of the vehicle's being repainted. 2. Vehicle Odometer Tampering Many vehicles that are imported into the UAE may come with incorrect Odometer readings. To validate the true Mileage history of an Imported Vehicle, it is very important that a Chassis Number Search is performed against the vehicle in question. 3. 'Quick Sale' Seller Pressure Tactics Sellers who attempt to sell vehicles very quickly should be considered suspicious. They may attempt to sell you the Vehicle at night or at times when they do not want to be seen. 4. Failure to Perform Adequate Mechanical Inspections A visual inspection is just a start. Many vehicles appear to have no mechanical issues when you drive them, but many of these Vehicles may have something hidden deep down that you will not see until you do an actual Mechanical Inspection and see the Under-carriage or underbody of the vehicle.