Scams are a sad thing we seem to have to deal with on a daily basis. Just open your inbox and you’ll probably see a few emails trying to get you. One scam you may not expect though involves scrapped cars. We want to look at this today so you know what to consider when you buy a second hand car or sell a vehicle for scrap. Then, if you want to become a car broker, you can speak to us.
Scrapping
Did you know that over one million cars become scrap every year in the UK? In some cases it is because they simply reach the end of their lifecycle. In others, vehicles are in an accident and scrapping is the only option.
All vehicles must go to an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) to be scrapped. Operators of ATFs must ensure they process the vehicles in a legal, safe, and ethical manner. This involves removing hazardous materials, salvaging parts, and then recycling as much of the rest as possible.
In most cases everything progresses as it should here. However, a small number of vehicles don’t make it to ATFs. Instead, scammers attempt to fix them and then sell. This can cause massive problems for the new owners and the old ones too.
What is the issue if you buy one?
If you buy a used car, whether from a dealer, with help from a car broker, or from a private seller, you must ensure you can legally drive it on the road. This is unlikely to be the case if it was to be scrap. The repairs might be poor quality or there could be serious issues lurking. You could be unable to get an MOT or insurance.
The best thing to do here is to check before you buy a vehicle. There are free online services from the DVLA that can tell you more about vehicles. In addition, you can opt to pay for an HPI check. This can specifically look into more detail, including checking if a vehicle has been scrapped, written off by insurers, or stolen.
What about selling?
If you sell your vehicle for scrap, you need to ensure you choose a reliable ATF. Once they have the vehicle, you need to make sure they actually dispose of it as they should. Make sure you tell the DVLA it has been scrapped and then obtain a Certificate of Destruction (CoD) from the ATF. It is a crucial document and can offer protection in case there are any problems.
The crucial thing to keep in mind here is any owner will retain responsibility if a vehicle is not scrapped. If it ends up back on the road and is in an accident or incurs any fines, you will be liable. So, it is best to ensure the vehicle doesn’t end up becoming part of a scam.
Do you want to be a car broker?
Auto Car Brokers is a great place to find out more about broking. You can browse our website for lots of useful info, including answers to questions such as what it is and how you can start a business. Plus, we have some unique tools to help with the latter. The full business package includes everything you need, or you can buy separate elements if you would rather.
Whatever the case, if you want to be a car broker, we can help you. Working with us is rewarding because you can get advice and tools to avoid issues and make things easier for yourself. So, browse now or contact us.
