A POTENTIAL buyer of a car being sold near Yeovil tampered with the engine – before offering to buy the vehicle for parts.

The incident happened during a potential sale of a Volvo C70 in Higher Odcombe on October 8, police said.

“A car was damaged after it was advertised for sale on an internet site,” an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said.

“The owner of the Volvo C70 had advertised the car and received interest from four males who attended the property.

“On inspecting the vehicle, one of the males removed the header cap and mixed some oil into the water, claiming there was an engine fault and subsequently offered to buy the vehicle for parts.

“A mechanic examined the vehicle the following day and discovered the damage.”

Officers advised people to “always remain with your vehicle” when potential buyers inspect it.

Anyone with information regarding the incident at Higher Odcombe should contact police on 101, quoting incident number 5224265258, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.