Dangerous Scheme in the Used Car Market
Dangerous Scheme in the Used Car Market
The used car market is experiencing a period of high activity. Amid record sales of new cars, the segment of pre-owned vehicles is undergoing the most significant transformation. However, alongside growing demand, the number of fraudulent schemes is also rising.
According to Muhammad Ali Karakaş, CEO of Otomerkezi.net, for every new car sold in Turkey, there are approximately 6.8 used cars. In 2026, around 1.5 million new cars and 11 million used cars are expected to be sold.
But with opportunities come serious risks. Erkan Çalışkan, CEO of RS Oto Ekspertiz, warns that the number of fraud victims has noticeably increased recently.
The Most Common Method — Odometer Tampering
Despite stricter controls, odometer manipulation remains one of the most frequent types of fraud.
"Although these cases are fewer than in past years, odometer tampering is still one of the most common methods of fraud," says Erkan Çalışkan.
New Scheme: Vehicle Swap During Sale
One of the most alarming methods involves using two identical cars (same make, model, year, and even color).
- One car is fully functional.
- The other has serious defects.
The seller obtains a positive inspection report for the functioning car but registers the defective vehicle during the notary transaction.
Always verify the vehicle identification number (VIN) matches the registration certificate before signing any paperwork.
Chassis Number Replacement
Another dangerous scheme is the physical replacement of the body section containing the VIN. This method involves cutting out the section of the body around the VIN and welding a part from another vehicle.
The VIN can be located:
- Under the carpet
- On the vehicle floor
- In the trunk floor
- Under the dashboard
Poor welding and signs of tampering can be barely noticeable.
It is important to remember that only authorized institutions, such as TSE, the Chamber of Mechanical Engineers, and specialized universities, can officially verify the authenticity of a VIN.
Hiding Defects via ECU Software
Recently, the method of concealing faults by reprogramming the vehicle's ECU (Electronic Control Unit) has gained attention.
Installing modified software in the ECU can:
- Turn off dashboard warning lights
- Suppress error codes
- Hide faults during OBD scanner checks
- Simulate normal system operation
This is often disguised as chip tuning or firmware updates.
Experienced specialists can detect such interventions through comprehensive inspections, including physical examination and road testing.
What to Check During a Test Drive
During a vehicle inspection, specialists evaluate:
- Brake system performance
- Suspension operation
- Wheel alignment
- Transmission performance
- Unusual noises and vibrations
A thorough check almost always reveals technical issues.
Airbag Problems
Violations are often found in:
- Side airbags
- Steering wheel airbags
- Passenger airbags
Signs of tampering include:
- Missing original tape
- Mismatched production dates
- Installation of resistors instead of airbags
- Evidence of dashboard removal
Any traces of tampering or panel covering should raise suspicion.
Dangerous Phrases You Shouldn't Trust
Be cautious if you hear:
- "No inspection needed, the car is clean"
- "Mileage doesn't matter, only the engine counts"
- "Tramer overestimates the data"
- "No investments needed"
- "Like new"
- "It's a bargain"
Never skip a full technical inspection before purchasing.
