‘Always Bring a Mechanic!:' Driver Buys Honda On Facebook Marketplace. Then They Have to Get Towed Minutes Later

Motor 1

2 days ago

Buying a used car can feel like a smart move, until your 'deal' gets hauled away before the ink is dry. A viral TikTok shows the all-too-common risk of buying cars from strangers on Facebook Marketplace with no inspection, no warranty, and no safety net.
The clip from creator Dunce (@ytliaw) starts with a celebratory closeup of the Honda purchased fresh from its former owner via a Facebook Marketplace listing. Then we get a quick cut to see the SUV being readied for its ride on a flatbed tow truck to address an unnamed mechanical issue.
We don't learn how much she paid for the Honda or any other details of the deal, but it's easy to understand the disappointment and anger that come with a car purchase gone bad.
The Risk of Facebook Marketplace Deals
Buying a used car directly from a private seller on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist can be a roll of the dice. These platforms have made car shopping more convenient and often cheaper, but they've also opened the door to a flood of poorly maintained or outright deceptive listings.
Unlike
licensed dealerships
, private sellers aren't required to offer warranties or disclose mechanical issues beyond what's visible. And there's no regulatory safety net if the vehicle breaks down as soon as you leave the driveway. In many states, once money changes hands, the sale is
considered 'as is,'
meaning the buyer takes full responsibility—even if the car turns out to be a lemon.
According to the
Federal Trade Commission
, common risks in private sales include:
No warranty or service guarantees
No vehicle history report unless the buyer purchases it
No cooling-off period to reverse the sale
Hidden title issues or odometer fraud
Scams and deceptive practices are prevalent enough that the FTC and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) both
published
detailed guides warning consumers to take extra precautions when buying from individuals. Some states also require sellers to complete
disclosure forms
, but enforcement is uneven.
Peer-to-peer vehicle sales now account for a significant portion of used car transactions in the US, but accurate data is hard to track. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace don't provide transaction oversight, and complaints typically end up with local authorities, if they're filed at all.
Tips for Buying a Used Car Privately
Despite the risks, plenty of buyers safely and successfully purchase used vehicles directly from individuals, but it takes preparation and skepticism.
Here are some key tips from
Consumer.gov
, the
FTC
, and the
National Insurance Crime Bureau
to avoid ending up like the TikTok creator:
Bring a mechanic.
A pre-purchase inspection from a trusted professional could reveal issues with the engine, transmission, brakes, or electrical system that a seller might not disclose—or even be aware of.
Look for red flags.
Mismatched body panels, uneven tire wear, a lit check engine light, or an obvious jump-start can all signal deeper problems.
Run the VIN.
Use tools like Carfax, AutoCheck, or the free NICB VINCheck to check for salvage history, theft, flood damage, or total loss.
Request service records.
A well-maintained car usually comes with receipts, oil change logs, or digital service history. No paperwork? That's a potential red flag.
Meet in daylight in a public place.
Many police departments offer designated 'safe exchange zones' for private sales.
Don't rush.
If the seller pressures you to make a fast decision, walk away. A legitimate deal won't evaporate in an hour.
Get everything in writing.
Always complete a bill of sale and confirm the seller's identity. Inspect the title carefully for lienholders, incorrect VINs, or signs of tampering.
Know your local laws.
Some states require temporary tags or insurance before driving off. Check with your state DMV for requirements.
And if You Get Burned…
If a used car purchase goes south, buyers aren't necessarily out of options.
Consumer protection agencies
in many states, including the office of the Attorney General and the DMV, may offer mediation or assist with fraud complaints. If there's evidence of deception, such as a forged title, falsified mileage, or undisclosed mechanical issues, buyers may be able to
pursue compensation
in small claims court. Some states also provide
limited legal recourse
or buyer protection programs for private vehicle sales.
Insurance companies may also be worth contacting, particularly if the vehicle was covered and failed due to concealed issues like
flood damage
. In some cases, a policy could help offset the cost of repairs or a total loss. And while it won't recover your money, sharing your experience on platforms like TikTok, Reddit, or Facebook can help raise awareness, warn others, and potentially pressure bad actors into accountability.
Motor1
reached out to Dunce via direct message. We'll update this article if we hear back.
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