How to get a Vehicle History Check?
Getting a vehicle history check is a crucial step when buying a used car. This process ensures that you are fully informed about the car's past, including any potential issues that could affect its value and safety. By following a few simple steps, you can obtain a detailed report that will help you make an informed decision.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Vehicle History Check
Here's how you can perform a comprehensive vehicle history check:
- Obtain the Vehicle Registration Number: The registration number is essential for accessing the vehicle's history. You can find it on the car's registration plate or in the vehicle's registration documents.
- Choose a Reputable Service Provider: Select a trusted service provider like CarOwl. Make sure the provider has access to comprehensive and up-to-date databases.
- Enter the Registration Number: Input the registration number into the service provider's website or app.
- Review the Report: Once the report is generated, carefully review all the information provided. Pay attention to any red flags or discrepancies that may affect your decision.
What to Look for in the Report
A thorough vehicle history check report will include various details about the car. Here are some key areas to focus on:
Outstanding Finance
An outstanding finance check reveals if there is any unpaid loan on the vehicle. If you buy a car with outstanding finance, the lender can repossess it, leaving you out of pocket and without a car.
Insurance Write-Offs
Insurance write-offs categorise the severity of damage a vehicle has sustained. Categories range from A (scrap only) to D (repairable damage). Knowing these categories helps you understand the extent of any past damage and its impact on the car’s value.
Stolen Vehicle Check
To avoid buying a stolen car, a vehicle history check includes a stolen vehicle check, comparing the registration number with police databases to ensure it’s not listed as stolen.
Scrapped Status
A vehicle marked as scrapped has been deemed unfit for the road and officially removed from the registry. Buying such a vehicle can lead to legal complications and financial loss, as it’s often not worth repairing.
Mileage Anomalies
Mileage anomalies indicate discrepancies in the reported mileage, which could suggest tampering. A history check flags these issues, ensuring the mileage matches the car's wear and tear.
High-Risk Records
High-risk records include any indicators of severe past issues such as major accidents, flood damage, or structural damage. Recognising these signs helps you avoid vehicles with serious underlying problems.
Colour Changes
Colour changes can indicate past accidents or major repairs. A vehicle history check reveals any changes, helping you understand if the vehicle’s appearance has been altered significantly.
Plate Changes
Plate changes can be legitimate but might also be used to disguise a vehicle's past. Checking the history of plate changes ensures the vehicle’s identity is consistent and untampered with.
Imported and Exported Vehicles
Imported and exported vehicles often have different standards and histories. A thorough check reveals any such records, informing you of potential differences in maintenance and specifications.
Mileage History
Accurate mileage history is crucial for assessing a vehicle’s wear and tear. A history check compares reported mileage with service records to ensure consistency.
Keeper History
The number of previous keepers can indicate how well a vehicle has been maintained. Frequent changes might suggest recurring problems, while long-term ownership often indicates a well-kept car.
Using the Information
Once you have reviewed the vehicle history report, use the information to make an informed decision. Here are some tips on how to proceed:
Discuss Findings with the Seller
If the report reveals any issues, discuss them with the seller. Ask for explanations and additional documentation if necessary. Honest sellers will be willing to provide more information.
Get a Professional Inspection
Consider hiring a professional mechanic to inspect the vehicle, especially if the history check reveals potential issues. A thorough inspection can uncover problems that are not visible to the untrained eye.
Negotiate the Price
Use the information from the history check to negotiate a fair price. If the vehicle has minor issues, you may be able to get a discount. However, if the problems are significant, it might be best to walk away from the deal.
Walk Away if Necessary
If the vehicle history check reveals major issues that cannot be resolved or if the seller is not forthcoming with information, do not hesitate to walk away. There are plenty of other cars on the market, and it is better to be safe than sorry.
Conclusion
Conducting a vehicle history check is an essential step in the used car buying process. It provides transparency, protects you from potential fraud, and helps ensure that you are making a wise investment. By following the steps outlined in this guide and using a reputable service like CarOwl, you can confidently navigate the used car market and make informed decisions.
For more information on related topics, visit our articles on The Importance of Vehicle History Checks and What is a Vehicle History Check?.
