An unscrupulous second-hand car salesman often reveals his true nature before any deal is made, and the most telling signs can appear in the listing itself. In this context, Sputnik radio references Vadim Ivanov, who heads the Cars department at Avito Auto, noting that deceptive advertisers typically leave a trail in the way they present a vehicle online.
A trustworthy seller tends to present a car with clarity and care. Clear, well-lit photographs taken from multiple angles help buyers assess the vehicle accurately. Blurry images, shots that only capture a single feature, or photographs focused solely on the interior can signal an attempt to obscure faults or hidden damage. This pattern of presentation often corresponds to a broader attempt to mislead buyers about the car’s true condition, a warning that even small visual omissions should be treated with skepticism, according to industry observers like Vadim Ivanov and his team.
Additionally, a vague or evasive description accompanying a car for sale should trigger scrutiny. Inquiries about deposits before viewing, or requests for the buyer to transfer funds to a third party as a proxy, can be red flags for potential fraud. Caution is advised for anyone considering purchasing a vehicle from an individual who refuses to accompany the buyer for a thorough inspection or to view the car in person before completing any payment. These patterns have been highlighted by experts as common indicators of questionable transactions in the car market.
Maxim Shelkov, who leads the Autocriminalist expert center, adds that certain physical and technical cues can reveal a vehicle’s recent exposure to water. Signs include corrosion on electrical connectors, missing or non-standardized paper labels on parts, and residual moisture or dampness in hidden cavities of the body. He notes that while a car can be dry-cleaned to look presentable after water exposure, an interior that shows little to no wear may warrant a closer, more detailed inspection by a prospective buyer to uncover potential hidden issues.
In practice, a careful buyer should balance visual assessment with a comprehensive check of mechanical and electrical systems, emissions, and service history. A cautious approach is essential, especially in areas with harsh weather or flood-prone regions where water damage can be concealed by cosmetic improvements. Understanding these warning signals helps buyers avoid regrettable purchases and ensures that the selection process remains informed, transparent, and fair for all parties involved. For further context, industry discussions stress the importance of verifying documentation, requesting a vehicle history report, and conducting independent diagnostic checks before finalizing any sale. Source: Sputnik Radio, reporting on expert opinions from Vadim Ivanov and Maxim Shelkov.