Avoid Used Car Scams: A Simple Device Could Save You Thousands

Used Car Scams on the Rise: How One Device Could Save You Thousands Buying a used car can be risky, with the potential for costly hidden problems. In the US, many consumers are falling victim to scams on platforms like Facebook Marketplace. One TikTok video highlights a solution: a device called CarPal. The video, posted by Shiftperfect, demonstrates how this $40 OBD2 scanner can help identify potential issues before purchasing. "This little forty dollar device is going to tell you everything you need to know about the vehicle before you buy it," says the author in the video. The CarPal app provides a full vehicle health check, including engine inspection, smog check, and battery test. The video shows the device identifying a fault in a used car's body control module, a problem the buyer might not have otherwise noticed. While the video promotes the CarPal device, its core message is a valuable warning to potential used car buyers. The author's demonstration emphasizes the importance of thorough vehicle inspections before purchase, regardless of the device used. This serves as a cautionary tale and a practical guide for anyone navigating the used car market.