How Not To Get Scammed As a First-Time Car Buyer

March 02, 2023 · 5 min read

Like any other industry, the car buying and selling industry is not short of dishonest sellers. As a first-time car buyer, it is essential to be aware of the opportunities to be scammed and how to avoid them. You should know what to look for and how to assess the condition of the vehicle you want. Here are some tips for avoiding getting scammed as a first-time car buyer.

Be Careful When the Deal is Too Good to Be True:

When it comes to buying a car, if the deal seems too good to be true, then it probably is. Don’t get taken in by unrealistic offers or discounts that are too good to be true. It’s important to be aware of what the average market price for similar models is and shop around for the best deal. Go into the market prepared to pay a fair price for the car you love.

Check out the Vehicle’s History:

It is important to know where the car has been and what repairs it has had. Ask to see the vehicle’s title, registration, and maintenance history as well as any service records that can verify its condition. Knowing if a car has been in an accident or not is important when deciding how much you are going to pay for it. Ensure that all documents are complete and up-to-date.

Take Your Time

Scammers want to get your money as soon as possible, but don’t let them rush you. Take your time to properly evaluate the car and research it. Don’t make any quick decisions – take a few days to think about it if need be. Ensure that you feel comfortable with the purchase before signing any contract.

Reverse Search the Provided Images

Before you visit a used car for sale, the seller will usually provide some images. Run these images through an online reverse search engine to make sure that they have not been taken from another website or advertisement. This will help to ensure that you’re not being scammed by someone using stock photos to deceive buyers.

Inspect the Vehicle in Person:

It’s important to inspect the vehicle in person and not just rely on pictures or descriptions provided by the seller. This is especially true when buying a used car, as you want to make sure it’s been well-maintained and has no underlying issues. Make sure to bring a friend or family member with you who has experience in car maintenance and can help identify any potential issues.

When looking at the vehicle, check for signs of rust, dents, scratches, or areas that may have been repaired. Also look for evidence of smoke, odors, water damage, or condensation within the interior. Examine the tires and brakes too – look for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear.

Take a Drive

Test drive the car to check how it handles on the road. During this time, pay close attention to any unusual sounds coming from the engine or transmission when accelerating, decelerating, and turning corners. Also be sure to try out all of the features such as the air conditioning, power windows, and radio. Finally, check that all of the safety features such as the seat belts and airbags are in working order.

Check the VIN

The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) contains information about the car’s history, such as ownership and any accidents it may have been in. You can find the VIN usually on the inside of the driver’s side door jamb or under the hood. If the VIN on the door doesn’t match the one on the windshield, it could be a sign that the car was in an accident.

Know If There are Liens

If you do a VIN search with the National Insurance Crime Bureau, it will tell you if there are any liens on the vehicle. Liens mean that the previous owner still has not paid off the debt and therefore is not allowed to sell it. If this is the case, make sure that all of the paperwork is in order before continuing with the purchase.

Know the Salesmen’s Tricks

When buying a car, be aware of the sales tactics. Salesmen can try to pressure you into buying things that are not necessary or charge extra fees as add-ons. One trick you may encounter is a salesperson having you sit around for a few hours as they “try to talk to their manager to get you a better deal”. This is just a ploy to make you feel as if they are doing something for you. Be aware of any tactics being used and exercise your right to walk away if you don’t feel right about what’s going on at the dealership.

Read and Understand the Paperwork

Always remember to read all of the paperwork and ask questions before signing anything. Make sure you understand all of the fees and interest rates that are associated with the car before laying down any money. You should also be aware of any additional warranties or protection plans being offered, as well as what they actually cover. Many dealers will try to charge extra for these plans, so make sure you’re getting a good deal before signing up.

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You want to have a reliable partner when buying a car. Vann York Chevrolet Buick GMC is the place to go. We offer an impressive selection of new and used cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans with financing options designed to fit your budget. If you’re in North Carolina, come visit us today and let our team help you find the car of your dreams. We also offer certified pre-owned vehicles with extended warranties, giving you peace of mind that your purchase is protected. Stop by Vann York Chevrolet Buick GMC today or give us a call – we look forward to helping you get the car of your dreams!

Oct 16, 2026

2027 Chevrolet Equinox: Features, Trims, and Updates for SUV Shoppers

The 2027 Chevrolet Equinox keeps its mechanical formula straightforward and lets the trim levels supply the personality. LT, RS, and ACTIV all use the same turbocharged engine, seat 5, and offer available AWD, but they approach the compact-SUV brief from different directions. For drivers around High Point, NC, that means choosing an Equinox is less about chasing a stronger engine and more about deciding where you want the emphasis: comfort, sport-inspired design, or extra capability beyond pavement. LT, RS, and ACTIV Take Different Routes LT starts with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, giving the entry trim a surprisingly complete equipment list. RS turns up the visual energy with black mirrors, moldings, emblems, and badging, plus a flat-bottom steering wheel and standard 19-inch wheels. Available 20-inch machined wheels and a two-tone Black roof push that theme further. ACTIV heads in another direction with all-terrain tires and uniquely tuned suspension, then adds Evotex and sueded microfiber seating surfaces and an available two-tone white roof. New for 2027 Equinox LT and ACTIV models, there is the Autumn Harvest Metallic exterior color option. One Turbo Engine Powers the Entire Lineup Every 2027 Equinox uses a 1.5L Turbo engine producing 175 hp and 203 lbs. ft. of torque. A Drive Mode Selector is standard, and AWD is available for drivers looking for additional traction. Properly equipped models provide up to 1,500 lbs. of towing capacity. There Is More Cargo Room Than the Footprint Suggests The Equinox seats 5 and provides up to 63.5 cu. ft. of maximum cargo volume, giving it considerable flexibility for a compact SUV. An available AutoSense Power Liftgate also provides hands-free cargo access when arriving with groceries, luggage, or other gear occupying both hands. The 11.3-Inch Screen An 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen is standard with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. New for 2027, an available Interior Camera supports Cabin Glance and interior security recordings, adding another layer to the Equinox technology without requiring another screen somewhere on the dashboard. Safety Technology Is Extensive from the Start More than 15 safety and driver-assistance technologies are standard. Chevy Safety Assist includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Following Distance Indicator, and IntelliBeam®. Compare the 2027 Equinox at Vann York Chevrolet LT delivers a strong technology and comfort foundation, RS gives the Equinox a sharper visual identity, and ACTIV backs its tougher appearance with all-terrain tires and its own suspension tuning. Visit Vann York Chevrolet in High Point to compare available 2027 Equinox models in person. Schedule a test drive to see which trim best matches the roads, passengers, and cargo that fill your week.

Sep 28, 2026

2026 Chevrolet Suburban: Why Families Choose This SUV

Do you have a large family? You may need to carry people, luggage, sports equipment, and all the miscellaneous objects that come with everyday activities, and you want a comfortable and manageable vehicle from the driver's seat. The 2026 Chevrolet Suburban tackles the problem with 3 rows, seating for up to 9, substantial cargo capacity, multiple powertrains, and the towing capability to bring something sizeable along behind it. For families around High Point, NC, its appeal begins with one simple advantage: space. The Suburban Makes Its Size Count The Suburban is unquestionably a large SUV, but those dimensions create an interior designed around carrying people and their belongings together. Depending on configuration, it can seat up to 9 passengers, while maximum cargo capacity reaches 144.5 cu. ft. behind the first row. There is 93.8 cu. ft. behind the second row and 41.5 cu. ft. with all 3 rows in use. That last figure is particularly important for families because you don't have to fold the third row simply to make room for luggage or groceries. The rear seats can be folded when more space is required, creating a broad load area for larger cargo. Three Engines Give Families Different Options The 2026 Suburban offers a choice of 5.3L V8, available 6.2L V8, and available Duramax® 3.0L Turbo-Diesel engines. The 5.3L V8 produces 355 hp and 383 lbs. ft. of torque, while the 6.2L V8 increases output to 420 hp and 460 lbs. ft. of torque. The Duramax® produces 305 hp and 495 lbs. ft. of torque, giving buyers another option for long-distance driving and trailering. Families comparing Suburban trims and engines should consider passenger loads and towing plans alongside performance, since the ideal configuration depends heavily on how the SUV will be used. A Cabin Designed Around Long Journeys A family vehicle earns its keep after several hours on the road, not during a 10-minute test drive. The Suburban and its 17.7-inch diagonal center touchscreen gives the dashboard a strong visual focal point while providing access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle functions. Generous passenger space across all 3 rows is equally significant. It Can Bring the Family's Toys Along For families with boats, campers, or recreational trailers, the Suburban offers more than interior volume. When properly equipped, maximum available towing reaches 8,200 lbs. Available trailering technology can also help drivers manage the additional length and complexity that comes with pulling a trailer. Anyone planning to tow regularly should compare the Suburban towing capacity and trailering equipment carefully, since drivetrain, engine, equipment, passengers, cargo, and trailer weight all affect the appropriate configuration. Explore the 2026 Suburban at Vann York Chevrolet The Suburban isn't trying to disguise the fact that it's a very large SUV. That's part of its appeal. It uses those dimensions to provide up to 9 seats, 41.5 cu. ft. of cargo room with all 3 rows in place, up to 144.5 cu. ft. with the rear rows folded, and as much as 8,200 lbs of available towing capability when properly equipped. High Point, NC, families can visit Vann York Chevrolet to learn more about the Suburban today!

Sep 25, 2026

2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer: A Complete Look at Features, Trims, and More

If you seek a versatile compact SUV, the 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer deserves your full attention. Drivers in High Point, NC can find their perfect match right now at Vann York Chevrolet. This vehicle blends bold styling, smart technology, and a spacious interior into one capable package. Reach out to our team today to learn more about how this SUV easily handles daily commutes and weekend adventures alike. A Trim for Every Driver The 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer offers four distinct trims: LS, LT, ACTIV, and RS. The entry-level LS features 17" aluminum wheels and an 11" diagonal HD color touchscreen. The LT adds keyless open, remote start, and practical roof rails. For off-road enthusiasts, the ACTIV trim provides specialized suspension tuning, a functional skid plate, and the ECOTEC® 1.3L Turbo engine. The RS introduces sport-inspired touches like 19" High Gloss Black machined-aluminum wheels and a heated flat-bottom steering wheel. Smart Technology Built In Chevrolet puts technology front and center in the new Trailblazer. Every model includes a standard 11" diagonal HD color touchscreen. Available wireless charging keeps your devices powered on the go. Push-button start comes standard as well. Versatility and Cargo Space Despite its compact footprint, this SUV offers a surprisingly roomy interior. The standard fold-flat front passenger seat provides up to 8.5 feet of maximum cargo length. The vehicle comfortably seats five adults, and an available hands-free power liftgate simplifies loading. Safety Features You Can Count On Chevy Safety Assist comes standard, equipping you with six advanced driver assistance features. This suite includes Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, IntelliBeam, and a Following Distance Indicator. Optional upgrades include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Change Alert, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Find Your 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer at Vann York Chevrolet The 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer delivers style, technology, and reliable safety in one compelling package. From the LS to the sporty RS, there is a configuration to match your lifestyle. Visit Vann York Chevrolet in High Point, NC today to take a test drive.