People who are selling a second-hand car have been warned about a scam doing the rounds. It involves people asking to view a car that's for sale and then tampering with it to make it appear like it needs work.
One such reported scam has seen two men arranging viewings of cars for sale. When they arrive, one of them distracts the owners while the other looks under the bonnet.
While the owner is distracted, one of the men, police said, pours oil into the coolant system and into the exhaust pipe. They will then point out the oil to the seller, or test drive the car until it starts to smoke from the exhaust. They will then use this to ask for a discount on the car.
Reports of the scam have been made in North Devon. Devon and Cornwall Police has warned anyone who is advertising a car for sale to be on their guard.
A spokesperson for the force said: "If anyone comes to view your vehicle, be vigilant, ask a friend to be with you if possible. Do not leave the potential buyers alone with the vehicle or allow them the opportunity to tamper with the vehicle.
"If an issue is noticed during the viewing or test drive, do not lower the price without having the vehicle examined by your own independent mechanic. Do not accept any deal that you are not happy with."
Anyone with information about the incidents in Devon is asked to contact police via our website here or by phoning 101, quoting 50230005489. People in other parts of the country with concerns about such scams should contact their local police force.
