CARFAX reveals the 5 most common scams to avoid when buying a used car
Transparency note: This press release was originally published in Italian. The text has been machine translated. You can find the original press release here.
With rising airfares, geopolitical uncertainty, and the desire to travel without surprises, many Italians may choose to drive for their holidays. But for those planning to change their car before summer, the used-car market can hide significant risks.
Scams, omissions, and unfair practices are more common than one might perceive. In 2026, according to CARFAX data, almost one in two (45%) vehicles had recorded accidents or damage.
Milan, May 27th 2026 – Summer is approaching and, for many Italians, holiday planning is taking place in a context marked by new uncertainties. Geopolitical tensions and issues related to the cost and availability of aviation fuel are fueling concerns around air travel, with potential price increases, capacity reductions, and fears of cancellations. In this scenario, the car is once again seen as a reassuring option for those who want greater autonomy, flexibility, and control over their journeys.
However, the rush to find the right car—especially a used one—can turn into risky territory. Those who decide to change vehicles before the holidays, perhaps attracted by a tempting offer or driven by the urgency to complete the purchase, may be more exposed to scams, omissions, and unfair practices.
CARFAX, a global leader in vehicle history information, sheds light on the five most common scams in Italy when buying a used car, urging consumers not to let their guard down precisely at a time when the urgency to leave can reduce attention.
«Buying a used car always requires caution, but there are times of the year when the risk increases: before the holidays, for example, the desire to quickly find a reliable vehicle can lead to rushed decisions», comments Marco Arban, Director of European Business Development at CARFAX. «A low price or the promise of a fast deal should never replace proper checks. Reviewing the vehicle’s history and cross-checking documents, mileage, and available information is the first step toward traveling with real peace of mind.»
The 5 most common scams when buying a used car
Odometer tampering
This is one of the most widespread and feared forms of fraud. The odometer is rolled back to make the vehicle appear less worn and increase its value. Unusually low mileage compared to the car’s age, the condition of the interior, or the declared maintenance history should always raise a red flag. To protect yourself, it is important to compare data from inspections, service records, invoices, and the vehicle history report. According to an analysis of checks carried out on the CARFAX website in 2026, at least 3% of the vehicles inspected showed mileage inconsistencies, but the frequency of this scam might even be higher.
Undisclosed serious damage
A car may have been involved in major accidents and then quickly repaired before being put back on the market. Uneven paintwork, non-original components, irregular gaps between body panels, or unusually worn interiors may indicate previous damage. Before purchasing, it is advisable to have the car inspected by a trusted mechanic and to verify whether any accidents or damage are recorded in the vehicle’s history. According to CARFAX data on vehicles checked in 2026, almost one in two (45%) had recorded accidents or damage.
Fake listings and deposit scams
Prices far below market average, sellers claiming to be abroad, urgency to close the deal, and requests for an immediate deposit are typical warning signs of potential fraud. In some cases, the car does not exist or does not actually belong to the seller. The risk is transferring money through untraceable channels and seeing the fake seller disappear immediately after payment.
Undisclosed liens, encumbrances, or leasing
A car may appear compliant but be subject to administrative seizure, mortgage, attachment, or an active leasing contract. In such cases, the vehicle may not be freely sellable, drivable, or transferable. Before completing the purchase, it is essential to request a vehicle history report, like CARFAX, which includes registration data and financial charges information, and ensure that any encumbrances have actually been removed.
Cloned VIN or stolen vehicle
One of the most serious scams involves the VIN, the vehicle identification number. Some fraudsters may clone the VIN of a “clean” car to conceal the illegal origin of a stolen vehicle. For this reason, it is important to check that the VIN stamped on the vehicle matches the documents, shows no signs of tampering, and is consistent with information in databases and available reports.
Reducing risks before leaving
CARFAX advises anyone considering the purchase of a used car before the holidays to follow a few simple but crucial rules: be wary of offers that seem too good to be true; do not pay deposits without having seen the vehicle and verified the seller; always check documents and the VIN; compare mileage with inspection and service records; request a vehicle history report; conduct a test drive and get the car checked by an independent workshop.
«Transparency is the true ally of anyone buying a used car,» adds Arban. «A vehicle may look perfect in an ad, but its history can reveal much more: accidents, ownership changes, previous uses, imports, or possible mileage inconsistencies. Before setting off on holiday, it’s worth taking the time to carry out all the necessary checks. It’s the best way to avoid unpleasant surprises—not only at the time of purchase, but also on the road.»