Don’t get caught with a stolen car: Importance of vehicle history checks

The increase in car thefts in the UK emphasises the vital need for potential buyers to do extensive stolen vehicle checks. According to the DVLA, a car is stolen every seven minutes, thus it is critical for buyers to protect their investments by checking the history of a vehicle before purchasing. This tutorial explains how to do a stolen vehicle check and the consequences of purchasing a stolen vehicle.

The role of stolen vehicle checks

A stolen vehicle check involves entering a car’s registration number into a database to see if it has been reported stolen. This check is critical because it provides peace of mind and a variety of information that is not generally available to everyone. It’s especially crucial because if you unknowingly purchase a stolen car, you risk losing both the vehicle and your money without compensation.

How to conduct a stolen vehicle check

1. Registration Number: Enter the vehicle’s registration number on services like The Auto Experts to check its status against the UK Police National Computer (PNC). This check can reveal if the vehicle was previously reported as stolen.
2. VIN Verification: Compare the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the report with the one on the car. The VIN is a unique code that can confirm the vehicle’s identity and detect potential theft.
3. V5C Logbook: Verify the V5C logbook, which is the car’s registration document. Ensure it has the DVLA watermark and matches the owner’s information. The logbook contains essential details about the vehicle and its modifications.
4. Tax and MOT Checks: Conducting these checks ensures the car’s legal and roadworthy status. A car without valid tax or MOT might raise red flags.

Risks of Buying a Stolen Car

Purchasing a stolen car can lead to severe consequences:

• Seizure by Police: Even if bought in good faith, the police can seize a stolen vehicle, leaving you without the car or your money.
• Insurance Issues: Insurers are unlikely to cover a stolen car purchase, and if they do, the process can be lengthy and fraught with scrutiny to prevent fraud.

Identifying an abandoned car

An abandoned car might not necessarily be stolen. However, if it’s declared as SORN (Statutory Off-Road Notification) and found abandoned, it could indicate theft. In such cases, the original owner might not have insurance, leading to significant financial losses. Always report abandoned vehicles to authorities and check their status before purchasing.

Importance of Reporting Stolen Vehicles

If your vehicle has been stolen, notify the police immediately. The stolen vehicle’s details are retained in the PNC, and if it is recovered, the police will give it to its legal owner. Ensuring that the stolen car is recorded aids in its recovery and keeps after buyers from accidentally purchasing it.

While some firms provide free stolen car checks, they generally have limitations. Paid services often give comprehensive car checks that contain extensive information about the vehicle’s history, but free services may not.

Financial implications of purchasing a stolen car

If you buy a stolen vehicle, recovering your money can be challenging. Insurers can decline to repay the damage, and even if they do, the process is time-consuming. Also, the vehicle is typically returned to its rightful owner or insurance company, leaving you without compensation.

Conclusion

Skipping a stolen car check might result in major financial and legal effects. Ensure that all necessary checks have been performed, including the VIN, V5C logbook, tax, and MOT status. Knowing a vehicle’s entire history before purchasing protects your investment and avoids legal issues. The Auto Experts offers comprehensive car history check services at highly competitive prices. Ensuring you get the best value; they provide detailed reports that include vital information.