Quick Tip: How to avoid car dealership scams

Jason Knowles Image
Thursday, July 24, 2025
Quick Tip: How to avoid car dealership scams

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Here's a quick tip on a growing online vehicle scam that's costing consumers.

The Better Business Bureau says it's getting hundreds of reports of scammers impersonating real dealerships and tricking buyers into paying for cars, trucks, boats and heavy equipment, but none of it exists.

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Scammers create professional-looking websites, using stolen business names and logos to appear legitimate. They list vehicles at unbeatable prices, pressure buyers to send money quickly and then vanish.

If a price is way below market value, it's likely a scam. Always see the vehicle in-person or request a live video call with the seller. Never wire money to a stranger.

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