Looking for Hot Rods Onine: Tips and Sources
It is not unusual these days to begin the search for your hot rod online. There are innumerable companies and sources out there providing reliable services. Yet, you must keep on your toes when making any transactions over the Internet. Below are a few tips on how to be smart when buying parts and cars online, as well as list of sources to check out.
Reliable Sources
This may seem like a no-brainer, but taking a few minutes to verify the source you are planning to purchase anything from can save you a lot of hassle down the road. If you are buying on eBay, take a few minutes to read the seller's feedback and make sure it is positive. If you are going to buy a car far enough away that you can not go look at it yourself, try to verify that the car for sure exists. Ask the seller for as much information as possible, especially detailed pictures. If they cannot come through with anything else than a generic looking picture, definitely think again before sending money. Also, there are services the will check out vehicles and verify them on your behalf such as SGS Automotive Services.
The Transaction
Once you have verified that you have a reliable source and that you want to buy the vehicle, think carefully about the best way to send money. The best way to pay online according to the FTC is to use your credit card. Credit cards generally afford the best consumer protection. Otherwise, if you wire money or send a check, that money is no longer yours. PayPal and eBay motors also offer reputable and secure methods of payment.
Recommended Reading on Online Transactions
- On Guard Online: Collects information about online safety from the Federal agencies and associated tech companies.
- Federal Citizen Information Center: Up-to-date information on current scams and frauds involving online purchases of automobiles.
- Hot Rod Hotline: Read through this information page at the Hot Rod Hotlines classifieds. It includes many tips specific to buying hot rods on the Internet as well as a guide to scams you might come up against.
Hot Rod Classifieds
- The Car Bazaar: Classifieds at the Hot Rod Hotline. Traditional and modern hot rods are separated into different classified sections, as well as a parts "swap meet."
- E-Swap Meet: Look for hard-to-find parts or post a parts wanted ad at this virtual swap meet dedicated to classic cars.
- eBay Motors: Many hot rods to be found at this well-known and reputable online dealership.
- Prewar Cars: Information and marketplace for cars and parts from the prewar era.
- Classic Muscle: Extensive parts database divided into model specific sections for cars built between the late '50s and 1980s.