In Eswatini, the rise of digital classifieds, online marketplaces, and private car deals has made buying or selling a vehicle more convenient—but also more risky. Every year, unsuspecting buyers lose thousands of Emalangeni to fraudulent sellers. Likewise, legitimate sellers fall victim to identity theft or receive counterfeit payments. If you're planning to buy or sell a car in Eswatini, this guide will show you exactly how to avoid scams and stay safe throughout the transaction.

Why Car Scams Are Common in Eswatini

Eswatini’s used car market thrives on imported vehicles, mostly from Japan and South Africa. Many transactions happen between individuals rather than through dealerships. This creates a perfect storm for scams, such as:

  • Fake listings with unrealistically low prices

  • Stolen or cloned vehicles

  • Bogus payments (cheques, fake transfers)

  • Identity theft from forged documents

According to reports from local forums and users of Cartsenga.com, these scams often occur via WhatsApp deals, Facebook Marketplace, and unverified classifieds.

1. Always Meet in Person at a Public Location

Whether you're buying or selling, face-to-face meetings in safe, public places are non-negotiable. Avoid private addresses or isolated areas. Safer locations include:

  • Police stations

  • Shopping center parking lots with CCTV

  • Bank branches (for safe cash transactions)

Pro tip: Suggest a meeting point near the Mbabane Police Headquarters or any traffic department office.

2. Verify the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Before you shake hands, check that the VIN on the car matches the documents (logbook/registration certificate). Be cautious if:

  • The VIN is scratched off or covered

  • The seller is reluctant to show papers

  • The registration book has mismatched names

To confirm the VIN, you can use regional vehicle databases or request verification assistance from Royal Eswatini Police (REPS).

3. Never Pay Before Seeing the Car

A common scam involves requesting a deposit to “hold the car” or cover transport, especially when the vehicle is allegedly located outside of Eswatini. Don't fall for it.

  • Never send money via mobile money or bank transfer without seeing the vehicle

  • Be especially wary of sellers who use urgency to pressure you (“many other buyers are interested”)

For safe transactions, use bank branches and confirm fund clearance before handing over keys or cash.

4. Demand Original Documents – Not Copies

Ask for and inspect the following original vehicle documents:

  • Registration Book (Blue Book)

  • Roadworthy Certificate

  • Proof of insurance (optional but helpful)

  • Clearance from REPS for imported vehicles

If the seller only provides photocopies or digital scans, it’s a red flag.

5. Watch Out for Fake Roadworthy Certificates

Some scammers forge Roadworthy Certificates to convince buyers that the car is legally drivable. Always verify:

  • Certificate date (must be recent – within 30 days for ownership transfers)

  • Official stamp from a certified testing station in Eswatini

  • Vehicle details matching the seller’s papers

For tips on roadworthiness and inspections, visit Cartsenga.com’s driving guide section.

6. Confirm the Seller’s Identity

Before transferring ownership, ask to see:

  • National ID or Passport

  • Proof of address (utility bill, rental agreement)

  • Driver’s licence (if available)

Check if the ID matches the name on the registration book. If it doesn’t, demand written proof of legal ownership.

7. Avoid Middlemen Without Proper Authorization

In many Eswatini car scams, “brokers” or “agents” pose as sellers but have no legal right to the vehicle. Unless they present:

  • Power of Attorney

  • Written authorization from the vehicle owner

  • Signed sales agreement

…it’s better to walk away.

You can read more about spotting shady agents on Cartsenga.com.

8. Use a Sale Agreement or Bill of Sale

A legitimate transaction must be supported by a written agreement signed by both parties. It should include:

  • Full names and ID numbers

  • VIN and vehicle description

  • Date and sale price

  • Signatures of buyer and seller

  • Witness signature (optional but recommended)

Templates are available on Cartsenga.com to help you draft this document.

9. Don’t Fall for “Quick Sales” or Unrealistic Prices

If it sounds too good to be true—it is. Some red flags:

  • Sellers asking for immediate deposits

  • Prices 40%+ below market rate

  • Refusal to answer questions or delays in communication

Compare prices on verified listings like Cartsenga.com’s car listings to avoid falling for bait-and-switch scams.

10. Verify Bank Transfers and Mobile Money Payments

If selling a vehicle:

  • Only accept verified EFT transfers (wait for funds to reflect, not just SMS)

  • With mobile money (e.g., MTN MoMo), confirm receipt on your own device

  • Avoid accepting personal cheques or “pending payments”

Some scammers use fake mobile money messages to trick sellers into handing over keys.

11. Ensure the Buyer Can Register the Car

Before closing the deal, confirm the buyer has:

  • Valid ID

  • Proof of residence in Eswatini

  • Funds to pay registration and transfer fees

A failed registration can delay payment—or result in a legal mess. Buyers can check registration requirements on Cartsenga’s registration guide.

12. Watch for Stolen or Cloned Vehicles

Stolen vehicles often:

  • Have tampered VINs

  • Come with suspicious documents

  • Are offered at below-market prices

Ask REPS for clearance or check with local traffic offices. You can also verify if the car is flagged using the Vehicle Clearance Certificate (VCC) system.

13. Use Trusted Platforms for Listings

To reduce risk, use verified marketplaces like:

  • Cartsenga.com

  • Local dealership websites with physical locations

  • Platforms that verify seller identity before listing

Avoid random WhatsApp forwards or Facebook DMs from strangers.

14. Secure Test Drives the Right Way

Scammers may pose as buyers to steal the car during a test drive. If you’re a seller:

  • Always accompany the test drive

  • Bring a friend or family member

  • Hold on to the buyer’s ID or keys until return

And never agree to test drives at night or in remote areas.

15. Report Suspicious Activity Immediately

If you suspect a scam:

  • Report it to Royal Eswatini Police (REPS)

  • Warn others by posting alerts on platforms like Cartsenga.com

  • Block the individual on mobile platforms and social media

The more awareness there is, the fewer people will fall victim.

Conclusion

Whether you're selling or buying, the car trade in Eswatini comes with risks—but you can stay protected with a bit of diligence and the right tools. Never trust without verifying, and never pay without proof. Use official documents, meet in person, and rely on trusted websites like Cartsenga.com to guide your journey.

By taking these simple precautions, you can enjoy a smooth and scam-free car transaction in Eswatini.

FAQs

1. What’s the safest payment method when buying a car in Eswatini?
Verified bank transfers and mobile money with confirmation from your own device are safest. Avoid cheques.

2. Can I buy a car from someone using a Power of Attorney?
Yes, but verify the documents and the identity of both the agent and the car owner.

3. What should I do if I suspect the car is stolen?
Request a Vehicle Clearance Certificate from REPS or visit a police station for verification.

4. Is it safe to buy a car listed on social media?
Only if the seller can meet in person, show documents, and allow a full inspection. Platforms like Cartsenga.com are safer.

5. Can I trust scanned or photocopied car documents?
No. Always demand to see the original registration book, ID, and roadworthy certificate before making any payment.