Viewing the vehicle for the first time

Make sure the seller either owns the vehicle, or is able to offer it for sale and consider the following:

• be careful of mobile phone numbers - it’s very hard to find their owners
• look out for ads with only email address's as contact.
• watch out for adverts giving a phone number and time to call, it could just be a call box
• try to see the vehicle in daylight at the seller’s home and not in a public place
• make sure the seller is familiar with the vehicle and its controls

What to look for when you check vehicle s

Make sure the vehicle’s identity and documents are correct.

How to check vehicle looks for signs its been stolen.

Have a good look at the vehicle and be sure you are happy with its condition. Things to check for:

• see if the engine has been changed in any way
• check all the locks open with the same key - thieves will change locks that have been damaged
• check for signs of a forced entry (doors close and fit properly).
  
• see if the locking petrol cap has been forced or replaced
• if you view a car under a street lamp you can often tell if any panels have been repainted.

Check vehicle identity

When you decide what make and model you are interested in, find out where the vehicle identification number (VIN) is on that vehicle. You will then know where to look and check it’s correct. Also check:

• the VIN matches the one on the vehicle registration certificate (V5C)
• the surrounding area for signs of damage or alterations
• the part VIN or registration number etched on the windows matches the ones on the registration certificate and number plates
• all window etchings match each other including headlamps, tail lamps and sunroofs
• the engine number matches that on the registration certificate
• underneath stickers, where fitted – they can be used to conceal etchings
• get a vehicle check (finance, stolen, mileage etc).

The vehicle’s registration certificate

If you decide to buy a vehicle make sure the person selling it has the right to do so as the registration certificate isn’t proof that they own the vehicle.

Make sure you have the registration certificate and it matches the vehicle’s details.

Check the registration certificate and satisfy yourself that it is real. By holding it up to the light you can see the DVLA watermark in it.

Be on the lookout for stolen registration certificates. DVLA has provided a range of serial numbers of known stolen registration certificates. If you find one that is in the range of BG8229501 to BG9999030 or BI2305501 to BI2800000 do not proceed with the sale and contact the police.

If you can’t find a serial number or it looks like it has been altered or tampered with, or the vehicle is accompanied by only part of the registration certificate you should not go ahead with the sale.

Enter registration number below to get free car ID check below.