How to check a car from mobile.de before travelling to Germany

TÜV or HU neu

This indicates a recent roadworthiness inspection. It does not guarantee that the car has no damage, mileage issues, or faults that were not identified during the inspection.

MwSt. ausweisbar

This means that VAT can be shown separately on the invoice. Clarify whether the advertised price is gross or net and discuss the tax treatment with the person responsible for the purchase.

Im Kundenauftrag

This means that the car is being sold on behalf of a customer. Clarify who will be named as the seller in the contract and who is responsible for the information and obligations relating to the transaction.

Nur für Export or Händler

The offer is intended for export or professional buyers. Read the terms carefully and do not assume that you will have the same rights as in a standard consumer sale.

Bastlerfahrzeug

This generally describes a vehicle intended for repair or as a project. It may have significant faults and requires a thorough technical inspection.

EZ

This refers to the date of first registration, not necessarily the year of manufacture.

Request the documents before travelling

Ask for photographs or copies with sensitive personal information covered but with the VIN visible.

Check for the existence of:

• the registration certificate, Part I;

• the ownership or registration document, Part II;

• the roadworthiness inspection documents;

• the certificate of conformity, if available;

• the service book and service invoices;

• documents relating to any repairs;

• the invoice or contract that will be issued.

The VIN must be identical in every document.

If Part II of the registration document is held by a bank or finance company, clarify in advance how the financing will be settled and when you will receive the original document.

Clarify the gross and net prices

Do not assume that the price displayed in the advertisement is automatically the final amount for every buyer.

Ask in writing:

• what the gross price is;

• whether a net price is available;

• whether VAT is shown separately;

• what price will appear on the invoice;

• whether there are any additional fees;

• whether the price includes export preparation;

• which tax documents will be issued.

The terms vary depending on the seller, vehicle, and buyer’s status. Clarify the tax position before sending money or travelling.

Do not pay a deposit simply because the offer appears attractive

A price significantly below market value, pressure to make a quick decision, and a request for a deposit may indicate attempted fraud.

Be cautious if:

• the seller communicates only through messages;

• the seller refuses a video call;

• the car cannot be viewed at the company’s address;

• payment is requested to another person;

• the bank account does not belong to the seller;

• a transport company that will supposedly hold the money is mentioned;

• you receive documents with unclear details;

• the seller claims to be in another country;

• the offer is significantly below market value;

• you are required to pay immediately to “reserve” the car.

mobile.de recommends caution when paying deposits and warns about scams involving fraudulent transport or payment transfer services. mobile.de Safety Guide

Request an independent inspection

If the car appears suitable, try to arrange an inspection before travelling or immediately after you arrive.

The inspection should include:

• electronic diagnostics;

• paint thickness measurements;

• an inspection on a lift;

• checks for leaks;

• the suspension;

• the brakes;

• the tyres;

• the structure;

• the safety systems;

• a test drive;

• checks for any modifications.

Choose the workshop or inspection company independently. Do not rely exclusively on an inspection presented by the seller.

Confirm the important information in writing

Before travelling, request clear answers to the following questions:

• Has the car been involved in any accidents?

• Have any panels been repainted?

• Is the mileage declared to be genuine?

• Is a service history available?

• Are both keys available?

• Are there any faults or warning lights?

• Does the car have any known defects?

• Can it be inspected at an independent workshop?

• Is the price gross or net?

• Who will be named as the seller in the contract?

• Are the original documents available?

• Can the car be collected immediately?

Keep the conversation and written confirmations. Important information should also be included in the contract or invoice.

Compare the price with the market

An offer that is significantly cheaper than similar vehicles requires additional checks.

Compare the car with similar vehicles based on:

• year;

• mileage;

• engine;

• equipment;

• condition;

• type of seller;

• VAT treatment;

• history;

• number of owners.

The price difference may have a legitimate explanation, but it may also conceal damage, technical problems, non-deductible VAT, or special sale conditions.

When is it not worth travelling to Germany?

Cancel or postpone the journey if:

• you do not receive the VIN;

• the information in the report does not match the advertisement;

• the seller refuses an independent inspection;

• the documents are unavailable;

• the final price is unclear;

• the company in the advertisement differs from the payment beneficiary;

• the seller requests a suspicious deposit;

• the mileage cannot be explained;

• the photographs are insufficient or appear to have been copied;

• the answers change during the conversation.

The cost of a report and a remote inspection is much lower than the cost of travelling to see a car that has been misrepresented.

Check the history before travelling

Enter the VIN on Certcar and check the mileage, damage, photogr