BEWARE OF MOTOR VEHICLE SCAMS

You might have heard the expression Caveat Emptor, which is Latin for Buyer Beware. However, based on complaints and reports that the Consumer Affairs Commission (C.A.C.) continues to receive, there is an indication that Buyers of Used Cars need to begin exercising more caution and to be on the alert for the many scams and pitfalls just waiting in the market for the next unsuspecting consumer.
Vendors likewise need to respect consumers' right to safety and to accurate information as well as conform to the many laws which are in existence to ensure fair play in the market place between both buyers and themselves.

Know What you are Buying!
In Jamaica, a Motor Vehicle is considered used if the odometer is registering over 4827 km (3,000 miles) or the vehicle is pre-owned by a third party and it is over six months old. Therefore, a vehicle although being new in terms of kilometers driven but not manufactured in the current model year, would be considered as used.

Do your Home Work!
Before you part with your cash, the first rule of thumb is to do your research. The money you plan on spending on your Vehicle is not chicken feed and even that has become expensive! Talk to friends and relatives and ask what their experiences had been when they acquired their vehicle so that you can get an idea as to what to look out for. Do not part with your cash before ascertaining the legitimacy of the business. Check with the Registrar of Companies, to see if the company is listed, call the CAC and visit the advertised address to ensure that they are actually operating from that location.
Part of your research should also involve visits to as many car dealerships as you feel necessary, in order to get all the relevant information about all your options. Search for the vehicle of your choice, obtain free price quotes and information such as after sales service, availability of spare parts and warranty provisions, from accredited dealers. As it is also possible for brokers to import a vehicle on your behalf, be clear on what you are being offered. Government's Motor Vehicle Import Policy provides for an implied policy on vehicles imported by Dealers, not by a broker. Compare information on the various offerings and make your choice!

Tell us what issues you want addressed

Send e-mail to: cacjam@infochan.com or star@gleaner.com

Write to us at: 1B Holborn Road, Kingston 10 Or call us at: 926-1650-2 or toll free 1-888-991-4470, ask for our Information Desk