The Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicles Services (DMV) is sounding the alarm about new scams that could affect anyone in the market for a new or used car. These scams use counterfeit Manufacturer Certificates of Origin (MCOs) to obtain fraudulent vehicle titles and trick unsuspecting buyers into purchasing stolen vehicles.
Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself.
What’s an MCO?
An MCO is a vital document that proves the original ownership of a vehicle. It's issued by the manufacturer and includes key details like the car's make, model, year, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Scammers are taking advantage of this system by creating fake VINs and pairing them with counterfeit MCOs. These fake certificates often list the manufacturer's name along with an out-of-state dealer or distributor as the initial buyer.
How to Spot a Fake VIN or MCO
To protect yourself, the DMV suggests these steps:
- Check the VIN
Run the VIN through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's recall site. If the VIN isn't legitimate, you'll receive an error message. - Research Vehicle History
Use the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) to review the vehicle’s title history. Be sure to use an approved NMVTIS data provider, as there may be a small fee for this service. - Verify with the Original Dealer
If you're still unsure, contact the dealer or distributor listed on the MCO. They should be able to confirm whether they purchased the vehicle from the manufacturer.
Tips for Safe Vehicle Purchases
- When buying from a private seller, always take a photo of the seller's ID and note their contact information. If they have another vehicle, jot down or photograph its license plate number.
- If buying from a dealership, confirm it's certified using the DMV's online dealership lookup tool. Also, verify the person you're dealing with is an employee of that dealership.
Fake Dealership Warning
In the December 30, 2024, press release, the DMV also cautioned buyers about fraudulent dealerships that appear legitimate. To protect yourself, always verify a dealership's certification through the DMV's website before doing business.
For more details and tools to protect yourself, visit the Oregon DMV’s dealer webpage.
Want more tips on buying a car?
- Discover the 10 used car red flags to watch out for.
- Learn what car insurance is required in Oregon.
- Find out what questions you should be asking yourself before purchasing a vehicle.