BEWARE OF MOTOR VEHICLE SCAMS PART 2 (CONSUMERS, PROTECT YOURSELVES)

(This is the second part of a two part feature)

Protect Yourself!
Second Rule of thumb is to get what you are promised in writing and have it stamped or signed by the Vendor or his representative. Having it in writing is just the first part, as you should also check the Vehicle to make sure that everything is there. Sometimes it may not be physically possible to do so, for example, if the vehicle is being imported, but ask for pictures and make sure to read what has been written to see whether all that you have been promised is all there.
Ask for clarifications when certain policies seem unclear and if you are not in agreement with the policy, negotiate to have it changed or go with another vendor. If you are purchasing from or through a Dealer, insist on a Warranty and be clear on exactly what coverage you are receiving. It is implied by Law that the minimum warranty on used vehicles should be for 90 days and should cover the Engine, Transmission, Steering Gear, Drive Train, Front End and Differentials. Although it may be cheaper to purchase from Used Car Dealers in Japan through an Agent in Jamaica for example, remember that lower cost most times comes with greater risk.
It would be good to take along a qualified motor vehicle technician whom you know and trust when you go to buy the vehicle. If you are able to do an actual inspection of the vehicle have a check done on the following parts for mechanical and/or physical damage as well as tampering or signs of repair, which could cost you a lot of money later on - Front and Back ends, Engine, Transmission, Controls, Odometer, Undercarriage, Tyres and Accessories. Also check for rust and dents and test-drive the vehicle to feel and hear how it sounds when on the road. If you notice any faults, ask for an explanation and have it assessed.
In three (3) cases received just this year alone, complainants spent a total of over $2.8 million dollars to acquire their vehicles. In two of the cases it was discovered that the mileage information provided at point of purchase did not match the actual mileage driven by the vehicle, and in one case the incorrect information had been provided as to the vehicle's age. In the first two instances the odometer had been tampered with and the relevant documents adjusted to reflect the erroneous information.

Know the Vehicle's Age
Therefore as mentioned above, another pitfall just waiting to catch Motor Vehicle Buyers, is to be sold a vehicle older than the one you thought you bought. There are some unscrupulous vendors who market vehicles as being newer than their actual age. Jamaican regulations however require that the year make of a vehicle is identified by the Model Date set by the manufacturer and not the year that the vehicle was manufactured.
With all this in mind, Consumers should appreciate the need for vigilance when acquiring their vehicles. Although in some cases it might be hard to discover defects until for example, the vehicle needs a part or it begins to malfunction unexpectedly early, make as much effort to strengthen your position by insisting that both dealers and overseas suppliers don't just take you and your money for a ride! Do the necessary research and insist on quality from your auto vendor.

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