High Risks of Buying Used Cars Directly: Avoid the Triangle Scheme

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The used car market in Indonesia remains a popular choice for many consumers due to its more affordable prices compared to new cars. Many used car transactions are conducted directly between individuals without going through dealers. However, this transaction pattern is considered to carry higher risks of fraud, one of which is the triangle scheme that often harms buyers. From ownership status, usage history, to the vehicle’s legal condition that is not fully conveyed to the final buyer. “This triangle scheme usually occurs when one vehicle is traded through several parties, so the information that reaches the final buyer is no longer complete. Even in some cases, the buyer does not know the actual status of the car,” said Jeffrey to Kompas.com on Monday (11/5/2026). Jeffrey explained that one of the most common scams is vehicles that are still under credit but have changed hands several times. This condition makes the final buyer unaware that the car still has instalment obligations to the financing company. In addition, there are not a few cases where vehicle documents such as BPKB and STNK are not synchronised or even not fully in the name of the last seller. This situation has the potential to cause legal disputes in the future if not thoroughly verified. In practice, the triangle scheme involves the initial owner, unofficial intermediaries, to the final buyer who becomes the most disadvantaged party. Each hand-over that is not clearly recorded makes the vehicle’s trail increasingly difficult to track accurately. “The biggest risk is on the final buyer because they receive layered information. Without proper verification, it is very possible that the car still has legal or financial problems,” he said. To minimise risks, prospective buyers are advised to conduct thorough checks on vehicle documents, credit status, and ownership history. Using independent inspection services or trusted platforms is also considered helpful in reducing fraud potential. In addition, buyers are also advised not to be easily tempted by prices far below market rates, as this often becomes the entry point for triangle scheme fraud. With the increasing number of independent used car transactions, vigilance is the main key so that consumers do not get trapped in practices that could harm them financially and legally.