Avoiding Common Scams When Selling Your Junk Car

Since Columbus Junk Cars Express, selling your junk car in Columbus should be a simple, honest transaction—but unfortunately, not all buyers play fair. Scammers and shady operations prey on unsuspecting sellers with bait-and-switch tactics, hidden fees, and fake payment schemes. Here’s how to protect yourself and avoid the most common junk car selling scams.

Columbus Junk Cars Express

4/16/20251 min read

1. Beware of Bait-and-Switch Quotes 🎯

The scam: You receive a high quote over the phone, but when the buyer arrives, they drop the offer for “unexpected” reasons.

✅ Get your quote in writing (text or email)
✅ Be honest about the vehicle’s condition upfront
✅ Ask if the offer will change once they arrive

💡 Columbus Junk Cars Express honors your quote—no last-minute changes.

2. Never Pay Towing Fees 🚛

The scam: The buyer offers a good price, then deducts towing fees from your payout—or worse, sends you a bill.

✅ Towing should be free, always
✅ Confirm that it’s included in your quote before pickup
✅ Avoid any buyer who brings up extra charges later

3. Don’t Accept Payment “Later” or by Check 🧾

The scam: Some buyers say they’ll mail you a check or “process payment” after pickup—but it never arrives.

✅ Only accept cash or verified payment methods
✅ Never hand over your keys or title without payment in hand
✅ Real buyers pay on the spot

💡 We always pay you before the car is towed—no exceptions.

4. Confirm Buyer Credentials 📋

The scam: Unlicensed or fake “buyers” may operate without a business address or documentation.

✅ Ask for business license or verification
✅ Check Google reviews or local listings
✅ Avoid vague websites or buyers with no physical location

✅ Columbus Junk Cars Express is licensed, local, and trusted in the Columbus community.

5. Don’t Sign Blank or Incorrect Paperwork ✍️

The scam: Some buyers ask you to sign incomplete titles or skip information—leading to legal or financial headaches.

✅ Double-check title transfer instructions
✅ Keep a photo of the signed title for your records
✅ Make sure buyer’s name and sale price are recorded properly

How Columbus Junk Cars Express Protects You

✔ Clear, written quotes
✔ No hidden fees or surprise charges
✔ FREE towing included
✔ Instant cash at pickup
✔ Local, licensed, and trusted in Columbus

📍 Address: 3550 Groveport East Rd, Columbus, OH, 43207
📞 Phone: (614) 440-1222
🌐 Website: Columbus Junk Cars Express

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Learn how to avoid scams when selling your junk car in Columbus. Get honest tips and sell safely with Columbus Junk Cars Express.