Staying safe in Spokane
Buying or selling a car privately is simple when you take a few basic precautions. Here's how to protect yourself and your money.
Meet in a public place
Meet at a police station, bank parking lot, or busy shopping center. Many Spokane police stations have designated safe exchange zones.
Verify the title and VIN
Ask to see the title. Make sure the VIN on the title matches the one on the dashboard and door jamb. Run a free VIN check before paying.
Use safe payment methods
Cash or a cashier's check from your bank are safest. Never send money via wire transfer, gift cards, or payment apps before seeing the car.
Bring someone with you
Bring a friend or family member to test drives and meetings. Let someone know where you're going and when you expect to be back.
Watch for red flags
Be cautious if the price is too low, the seller won't meet in person, they pressure you to pay immediately, or the story keeps changing.
Get a pre-purchase inspection
Before buying, have the car inspected by an independent mechanic. Many Spokane shops offer pre-purchase inspections for $100–$150.
Trust your instincts
If a deal feels off, walk away — there will always be another car. Spot a suspicious listing or have a safety concern? Report it and we'll look into it right away.