Golden Rule
Never pay before you've physically inspected the vehicle. No exceptions. Anyone pressuring you to pay first is a scammer.
For Buyers
Meet in a safe public place
Daylight hours, busy area like a mall parking lot or police station forecourt. Bring a friend.
Check the paperwork
NaTIS document, registration, original ID of the seller. Make sure the VIN on the car matches the papers.
Inspect the vehicle properly
Test drive it. Check service history. If you can, take a mechanic with you — it's worth the R500.
Never pay before viewing
Don't transfer money based on photos. Don't pay 'deposits' to hold a car. View first, pay last.
Watch for red flags
Prices that seem too good to be true. Sellers who refuse to meet in person. Pressure to pay quickly. Unusual payment methods.
Verify finance is settled
If the car is on finance, get a settlement letter from the bank. Don't take the seller's word for it.
For Sellers
Meet in a public place
Same advice as buyers — daylight, public, bring a friend. Never invite strangers to your home.
Wait for the money to clear
EFT can be reversed. Cash deposits at the bank are safer. Verify funds in your account before handing over the keys and papers.
Sign the change of ownership
Both parties must complete the NaTIS NCO form. Submit it to your local licensing department within 21 days.
Beware of fake bank notifications
SMS 'proof of payment' can be faked. Log in to your actual banking app and confirm the funds are there.
Spot a Scam — Common Patterns
- "I'm overseas / out of town." They want to pay by suspicious means and have a courier collect. Walk away.
- Asking price way below market. If a deal looks impossibly good, it usually is.
- Refuses to share location or surname. Real sellers have nothing to hide.
- Wants payment in crypto, vouchers, or to a third-party account. Always pay the registered owner directly.
- "Send a deposit to secure the car." Don't. Inspect first.
Report Suspicious Listings
Every listing has a "Report this listing" button. We review reports within 24 hours. If a listing gets 3+ reports it's automatically held pending review. You can also email nexuswheelscity@nexuswheels.city with details.