How to Protect Yourself From Scams When Buying a Used Car in Egypt
The most common tricks in the used car market, the warning signs that should stop you, and how to pay and sign with confidence.
Most sellers are honest, but one mistake when buying a car can cost you a lot of money. This guide covers the most common tricks in the used car market and the signs that should stop you before you pay.
The most common tricks
Tampered odometer: the reading is wound back so the car seems less used. Compare it with service receipts and the wear on the pedals, steering wheel and seats.
Hidden accident: paint and filler can cover major damage. An inspection at a specialist center is what reveals it.
Forged or incomplete papers: a licence, invoice or power of attorney that isn't genuine. Check the numbers and names yourself.
Undisclosed problems: installments, a sale ban or violations nobody told you about.
Deposit before you see the car: a very tempting price, a seller in a hurry, and a request to transfer money to "hold it for you".
Signs that should stop you
The price is unusually far below the market.
The seller is rushing you and doesn't want the car inspected.
They aren't the owner and have no clear power of attorney.
They refuse to meet in a public place or in daylight.
Their story about accidents or servicing keeps changing.
They want money before the viewing.
Check the papers
The name on the licence matches the seller's ID, or they hold a valid power of attorney that allows the sale.
The chassis and engine numbers on the car match the licence.
Nothing has been scratched out or altered, on paper or on the engraved numbers.
There are no violations, sale bans or remaining installments.
You'll find the full list in our used car inspection checklist.
Inspect it before you pay
Take the car to a test center or a mechanic you trust, chosen by you and not the seller. If the seller refuses an inspection, treat that as your answer and look for another car.
Pay safely
Don't pay a deposit before you've seen the car and the papers yourself.
If you do pay a deposit, get a written receipt with the amount, the car's and seller's details, and the terms for getting it back.
Don't carry a large amount of cash around. Complete the payment at the bank or the notary office.
Don't pay in full until you've checked the papers and agreed on the ownership transfer steps.
See the sale through to the end
Don't settle for a preliminary contract. Complete the ownership transfer until the licence is in your name, and keep copies of every paper.
If you suspect a scam
Stop paying straight away, keep the messages, receipts and transfers, and contact the relevant authorities or a lawyer. If a listing on AutoEG looks suspicious, report it from the listing page.