Never bought a repo car before is Whelan Transport legit or a scam?

[JamesWilson75]

Hi all,

I’m feeling a bit on edge as I’ve paid for a 2021 Toyota Hilux through Whelan Transport last Thursday which I came across the listing on eBay and was told the truck is a bank repossession from a finance default. They’ve said delivery to Bristol should be within 8 days, and the payment went into what they described as a segregated business account, held until I receive and approve the vehicle.

I’ve never bought a car like this before and now that the money’s gone, I’m second-guessing everything. Has anyone here actually bought a repo from Whelan Transport before?

Thanks,
J

[matthewlightburn]

To be fair your nerves are understandable. There are loads of dodgy “cheap car” listings online at the moment, that said, using a segregated holding account is usually a good sign. Scammers tend to want instant payment straight into personal accounts.

[JEEPWRANGLER2020]

I agree with Matt always trust your gut. If something feels off, it usually is.

[STAR89colin]

One thing I always suggest is asking if you can view the vehicle in person if a company refuses or gets defensive that’s when alarm bells ring. If they’re open to visits or even collection, it generally means they’ve got nothing to hide.

[JamesWilson75]

I actually called them last week to ask about viewing and they were surprisingly welcoming and even sent me directions to their site near Belfast City Airport. In the end I chose delivery instead I read through quite a few positive experiences online which pushed me toward trusting the process. Still nervous I won’t lie.

[Paul1990]

Hi everyone,

I bought a 2022 Audi A4 S Line from Whelan Transport last week. It’s due to arrive tomorrow.

I’m in the same boat as James right now so once it turns up (hopefully!) I’ll post an update either way.

Cheers!

[Bluewhaleeee]

Earlier this spring, I went to their yard to purchase a Tiguan, which was my first repo vehicle. Located only a few minutes from the Airport, it is easily accessible from the Sydenham bypass.

While I was there the atmosphere was really professional and everything was explained clearly.

[Thomas_Green78]

I bought a 2023 Cupra Formentor from Whelan Transport and had zero issues, everything went perfect with the sale and delivery
I have nothing bad to say about this company!

[craigstomer]

It’s honestly frustrating that genuine companies have to jump through hoops because of all the online scammers. From what I could see Whelan Transport are properly registered, easy to contact, and everything checked out when I looked them up.

[Paul1990]

Good news at last the Audi arrived about half an hour ago, just got back from a quick test drive and first impressions are excellent. Engine sounds smooth, gearbox is spot-on, interior looks freshly valeted. No warning lights, no odd noises.
I’ll book it into a dealership in the next couple of days for a proper inspection, but so far, I’m pleasantly surprised.