Payment Support

Car Spot connects buyers and sellers — we don't process payments. Here's everything you need to know about paying and getting paid safely.

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Car Spot does not handle, hold, or process any payments. All transactions take place directly between buyers and sellers. We will never ask you to send money to Car Spot.

How Payments Work

Once a buyer and seller agree on a price through our messaging system, they arrange payment directly between themselves. Car Spot is not involved in this process and cannot intervene in or guarantee any transaction.

Recommended Payment Methods

For private car sales we recommend the following secure methods:

Bank Transfer (BACS/Faster Payments)

A direct bank transfer is the safest and most common way to pay for a private car sale. The payment is traceable and both parties have a clear record. Always confirm the funds have cleared before handing over the keys or V5C.

Cash (in person)

Cash is widely accepted for private sales. If paying in cash, meet at a bank branch so the seller can verify the notes. Agree the amount clearly in advance and get a signed receipt.

Methods to Avoid

  • Cryptocurrency — hard to reverse if something goes wrong
  • Gift cards or vouchers — a common scam method
  • Wire transfers to overseas accounts
  • Payments through unofficial “escrow” services not agreed in advance

Staying Safe as a Buyer

  • Always view the vehicle in person before paying anything
  • Check the V5C (logbook) matches the vehicle and seller's details
  • Run an HPI check to verify there is no outstanding finance or theft record
  • Never pay a deposit before viewing the car
  • Be wary of sellers who refuse to meet in person or ask for payment before viewing
  • If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is

Staying Safe as a Seller

  • Only hand over keys and the V5C once cleared funds are in your account
  • For bank transfers, log in to your bank to confirm receipt — don't rely on a screenshot
  • Meet in a safe, public place for viewings
  • Tell someone where you are going if meeting a stranger
  • Do not accept overpayment cheques — a classic fraud

Reporting a Problem

If you believe you have been the victim of fraud, contact Action Fraud (0300 123 2040) and your bank immediately.

To report a suspicious listing on Car Spot, please contact us at [email protected] and we will investigate promptly.

Contact Us

Have a question not answered here? Get in touch at [email protected] and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.