A Complete Buyer Safety Guide by Godrivo.com
Buying a used car in India can save you a lot of money—but it can also cost you lakhs if you fall into common scams. From odometer fraud to flood-damaged vehicles, many buyers unknowingly purchase problematic cars every year.
At Godrivo.com, we believe an informed buyer is a safe buyer. This guide exposes the biggest used car scams in India and shows you exactly how to avoid them.
Why Used Car Scams Are Increasing in India
The Indian used-car market is growing rapidly, but:
- Many deals happen between individuals
- Documentation awareness is low
- Buyers focus only on price
- Fraudsters exploit first-time buyers
That’s why knowing these scams is critical.
1. Odometer Fraud (Mileage Tampering)
The Scam
The car’s mileage is lowered by the seller to make it appear less driven and more valuable.
⚠️ Warning Signs
- Excessive wear on steering, pedals, or seats
- Service records don’t match mileage
- “Very low km” on an old car
How to Avoid
✔ Check service history from authorized service centers
✔ Verify insurance claim records
✔ Average Indian usage = 15,000–25,000 km/year
2. Accident-Repaired Cars Sold as “Non-Accidental”
The Scam
Heavily damaged cars are repaired and sold without disclosing accident history.
⚠️ Warning Signs
- Uneven paint shades
- Irregular gaps between panels
- Welding marks under bonnet or boot
How to Avoid
✔ Inspect car in daylight
✔ Check underbody & chassis
✔ Get a professional inspection
Godrivo Advantage: Every car is verified for accident history.
3. Flood-Damaged Cars (Very Common in India)
The Scam
Flood-affected cars are cleaned and resold, especially after monsoons.
⚠️ Warning Signs
- Rust under seats
- Mud smell inside cabin
- Electrical issues
How to Avoid
✔ Check wiring & fuse box
✔ Lift floor mats and seats
✔ Avoid cars sold soon after floods
4. Fake or Duplicate RC Documents
The Scam
Cars with stolen, fake, or duplicate RCs are sold cheaply.
⚠️ Warning Signs
- Seller avoids document verification
- RC details don’t match chassis number
How to Avoid
✔ Verify RC on Parivahan website
✔ Match engine & chassis numbers
✔ Avoid deals without original RC
5. Pending Loan / Hypothecation Fraud
The Scam
Car is sold without closing bank loan.
⚠️ Warning Signs
- RC shows bank name
- Seller promises “loan will be cleared later”
How to Avoid
✔ Buy only hypothecation-free cars
✔ Demand NOC from bank
✔ Verify RC status online
6. Title Transfer Fraud (RC Not Transferred)
The Scam
Seller takes money but never transfers ownership.
⚠️ Why It’s Dangerous
- You are legally not the owner
- Traffic fines remain on previous owner
How to Avoid
✔ Transfer RC immediately
✔ Use authorized RTO agents
✔ Track ownership transfer status
7. Insurance & Claim History Hiding
The Scam
Sellers hide previous major insurance claims.
⚠️ Warning Signs
- Newly repainted panels
- Missing insurance history
How to Avoid
✔ Ask for insurance claim history
✔ Avoid cars with multiple major claims
8. Unrealistic Low-Price Traps
The Scam
Car priced far below market value to attract buyers.
⚠️ Reality Check
If the price looks too good to be true, it usually is.
How to Avoid
✔ Compare market prices
✔ Question heavy discounts
✔ Don’t rush emotionally
9. Tampered Service Records
The Scam
Fake service bills are shown to prove “well-maintained” status.
How to Avoid
✔ Verify service records directly with service centers
✔ Cross-check invoice dates & mileage
10. Dealer Commission & Hidden Charges
The Scam
Extra charges added after deal is finalized.
How to Avoid
✔ Ask for full price breakup
✔ Confirm RTO, insurance & handling charges upfront
Why Buying from Godrivo.com Is Safer
✔ Certified & inspected cars
✔ Verified documents
✔ Transparent pricing
✔ No hidden charges
✔ Expert buyer support
At Godrivo.com, we remove the risk from used car buying.
FAQs – Used Car Scams in India
Q1. How can I check used car history in India?
You can verify RC details on Parivahan and insurance history through insurers.
Q2. Is buying directly from owner safe?
Only if documents, inspection, and RC transfer are handled properly.
Q3. What is the biggest used car scam in India?
Odometer tampering and flood-damaged cars are the most common.
Final Advice
A used car should save money—not create future problems. Always:
✔ Verify documents
✔ Inspect thoroughly
✔ Avoid rushed decisions
✔ Buy from trusted platforms
🚗 Looking for a safe used car?
Visit www.Godrivo.com or call us today for verified deals.