How to Check for Stolen Vehicles?

Buying a used car is a big investment, and one of the most important checks you should do is ensuring the car is not stolen. If you unknowingly purchase a stolen vehicle, it could be confiscated by the police, and you may lose both the car and your money. Here’s how to check if a car is stolen before you buy.

Step-by-Step Guide to Checking a Stolen Vehicle

To avoid buying a stolen car, follow these steps:

1. Get the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN) or VIN: The VRN (license plate number) or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is required to check the car’s history. These details can be found on the car itself and in its official documents.
2. Use a Trusted Vehicle History Check Service: A reliable provider like Car Owl has access to stolen vehicle records from police databases, insurance companies, and the DVLA.
3. Enter the Registration Number: Visit the Car Owl stolen vehicle check page and input the VRN or VIN.
4. Review the Report: The history check will reveal whether the vehicle has been reported stolen. Make sure to read the report carefully before making any decisions.

Why You Should Check if a Car is Stolen

A stolen vehicle check is not just about protecting yourself—it’s about avoiding serious risks. Here’s why it’s essential:

Avoid Legal Trouble

If you purchase a stolen car, law enforcement can seize it, and you could even face legal consequences, even if you didn’t know it was stolen.

Prevent Financial Loss

Once a stolen car is recovered by the police, it is returned to its rightful owner or the insurance company. That means you’ll lose both the car and the money you paid for it.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that your vehicle is legitimate allows you to drive with confidence. A quick full vehicle history check ensures you're making a safe investment.

What to Do If a Vehicle is Reported Stolen

If a history check confirms that the car is stolen, follow these steps:

1. Do Not Proceed with the Purchase

Immediately walk away from the deal. Never buy a car if there’s any suspicion it might be stolen.

2. Report It to the Authorities

Inform the police about the situation, providing them with all relevant details. If you found out through Car Owl’s report, you can also notify their support team.

3. Continue Your Search

Look for another vehicle, and always conduct a comprehensive vehicle history check before purchasing to avoid similar issues.

How to Use Car Owl for a Stolen Vehicle Check

Car Owl provides accurate and up-to-date stolen vehicle checks, helping buyers avoid risky purchases. Here’s how to use it:

1. Go to the Car Owl vehicle history check page.
2. Enter the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN) or VIN.
3. Purchase a full history check for instant access to the report.

A full history check not only tells you if a car is stolen but also provides insights into write-off status, outstanding finance, and previous ownership records.

Conclusion

Before buying a used car, always verify that it is not stolen. A stolen vehicle check can protect you from financial loss and legal trouble. For complete peace of mind, consider running a full vehicle history check to uncover any hidden issues.

For more guidance, read our articles on The Importance of Vehicle History Checks and How to Conduct a Vehicle History Check.