Used Car Dealers Association of Ontario
A Deal You Can’t Refuse?
The term curbsider is well known to those in the automotive industry and government, but what does it mean to the consumer?
Curbsiders present a great risk of harm to consumers. They will attempt to sell re-built insurance write-offs, odometer-tampered vehicles, cars with liens on them, and vehicles which have undergone cosmetic repairs.
A curbsider is an individual selling vehicles to the public for the primary purpose of making a profit, but poses as if he or she is selling their own personal vehicle.
The curbsider may try to convince you that they don’t care about the money, which is why the car is such priced for a quick sale. There is a one in four chance of dealing with a curbsider.
How to Spot a Curbsider
Curbsiders are usually advertising the "family car" for sale, using a story such as:
- “I’m moving out of the country.”
- “I’m getting a company car.”
- “It belonged to my Aunt, but she passed away.”
When you respond to an ad, say “I’m calling about the car you advertised.” Curbers will often say “Which one?”…Stop…You’ve got a curber.
Click here to watch a video of other ways to spot curbsiders.
What You Can Do to Protect Yourself from Curbsiders
- When buying privately, be sure the seller gives you the official Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP).
- Be sure the seller’s name shows as the owner on the UVIP. Look at the list of prior owners, for the names of car rental companies, autobody shops or insurance companies, as a warning.
- Only buy used vehicles from a local UCDA dealer.
