- Top 5 points to check when selling privately
- 7 steps for safe transactions for buyers
- Required items to be included in the sales contract
- Summary of buyer’s rules
Top 5 points to check when selling privately
① Name change not possible
Even though I paid the price, the seller did not respond to the name change. If the vehicle is left unattended, the vehicle tax and accident liability will remain with the seller.
② Breakdown immediately after purchase
Private sales are often “as-is, no complaints,” and you cannot request a refund or repair even if the product breaks down.
③ Finance vehicle (loan balance)
I bought it without knowing it, but had to withdraw it later. It is especially difficult to check the loan balance in private sales.
④ Fraud/Bank transfer fraud
“Pay the money first” → The car never arrived. A typical example of fraud that frequently occurs on flea market apps and SNS.
⑤ False condition explanation
There are many cases where cars are sold with hidden scratches, accident history, and repair history that cannot be seen in photos.
7 steps for safe transactions for buyers
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Be sure to check the owner of the vehicle inspection certificate
Check that the seller’s name matches the “owner” field on the vehicle inspection certificate. If a loan company or credit company is listed, there is a suspicion that the vehicle is a financial vehicle. Car Tree’s explanation clearly states, “If there are any outstanding loans, you may not be able to change the name.”
⚠ If the owner and seller are not the same, a power of attorney and ID are required. If you cannot confirm, please refrain from purchasing. -
Inquire about vehicle history using CARNET, etc.
Based on the chassis number, check the accident history, repair history, and mileage history using vehicle history inquiry services such as CARNET. You can prevent losses of hundreds of thousands of yen for just a few thousand yen.
✓ It is also effective to present the inquiry results to the seller and check for any discrepancies. -
Be sure to check the actual vehicle and take a test drive
Don’t judge based on photos or descriptions alone. Be sure to check the actual product and take it for a test drive. According to Car Tree, it is recommended that “during a test drive, focus on checking for any discomfort, vibration, or engine noise when operating the steering wheel.”
Points to check: Engine noise, strange smells, brake sensation, steering wheel shake, air conditioner effectiveness, operation of electrical systems (power windows, navigation, etc.)
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Be sure to exchange a written document (sales contract)
According to Nextage’s explanation, “Exchanging a sales contract helps reduce risk.Oral transactions are strictly prohibited even if you are close.” The contract will clearly state vehicle information, price, payment method, name change deadline, status notification, etc.
⚠ Verbal agreements can easily lead to “said/unsaid” problems. In particular, it is essential that the status notification be kept in writing. -
Payment will be made after the name change is completed.
This is the most important point. According to Selfa, it is recommended to “determine the payment method (cash, transfer, etc.) in advance and write it in the contract,” but the safest method isPay after the name change is completedThat’s it.
⚠ Seller asking for “advance payment” may be a scam. Be especially careful if the transfer destination is a personal account. -
Change of name will be done together at the transportation branch office.
The explanation on the selfie states that “It is certain that the seller and buyer go through the name change procedure together at the transportation branch office.” If this is difficult, we recommend specifying the deadline for name change in the contract and setting penalties for not meeting the deadline.
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Take out car insurance from the day of delivery
According to Car Tree, “Please set optional insurance to be effective from the date of delivery.” Be prepared for any unexpected accidents by insuring your vehicle so that it can be ridden from the day of delivery.
Required items to be included in the sales contract
📄 Sales contract checklist
- Vehicle information (car name, model, chassis number, year, mileage, color)
- Purchase amount, payment method, payment date
- Explanation of the current condition of the vehicle (notification of scratches, repair history, and malfunctions)
- Deadline for name change and person in charge (whether it is done by the buyer or seller)
- Penalties/penalties if name change is not completed within the deadline
- Scope of defect liability (liability for nonconformity to contract)
- Delivery date/place
- Confirmation of delivery of accessories (spare keys, maintenance records, warranties, etc.)
Summary of buyer’s rules
- Check if the owner of the vehicle registration certificate and the seller match
- Inquire about vehicle history on CARNET
- Be sure to check the actual vehicle and take a test drive.
- Be sure to exchange a written document (sales contract)
- Pay the price after the name change is completed (advance payment is absolutely prohibited)
- Change of name will be done together at the transportation branch office.
- Automobile insurance (optional insurance) applies from the delivery date
