Why is Keeper History Important?
When buying a used car, knowing the keeper history is important. Keeper history tells you how many people have owned the car and for how long. This information can give you insights into the car’s condition and how well it has been maintained. Here’s why keeper history matters and how to check it.
Why Keeper History Matters
Understanding the keeper history of a car can help you make an informed decision. Here’s why it matters:
Vehicle Maintenance
A car with many previous keepers might not have been well-maintained. Frequent ownership changes can mean that the car has not been cared for consistently.
Usage Patterns
Knowing how long each keeper owned the car can give you clues about its usage. Short ownership periods might suggest recurring problems or high usage.
Resale Value
Cars with fewer previous keepers often have a higher resale value. They are seen as more reliable and better maintained.
How to Check Keeper History
Here are steps to help you check the keeper history of a used car:
- Get the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN): You need the VRN to check the vehicle’s history. It is found on the car’s number plate or registration documents.
- Use a Reliable Service: Use a trusted service like CarOwl to check the vehicle’s history. Reliable services provide detailed reports on the car’s status.
- Enter the Registration Number: Type the VRN into the service provider’s website or app.
- Review the Report: The report will tell you the car’s keeper history. Make sure to read it carefully.
Using CarOwl for Keeper History Checks
CarOwl is a trusted service that provides comprehensive vehicle history checks. Here’s how to use CarOwl to check the keeper history of a car:
- Go to the CarOwl website.
- Enter the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN).
- Get a detailed report on the car’s history, including keeper records.
Using a reliable service like CarOwl ensures you get accurate and up-to-date information. This helps you make a safe and informed purchase.
What to Look for in the Keeper History Report
When reviewing the keeper history report, here’s what to look for:
Number of Previous Keepers
A car with many previous keepers might have recurring issues. Fewer keepers often mean better maintenance and reliability.
Length of Ownership
Longer ownership periods suggest that the car has been reliable and well-maintained. Shorter periods might indicate problems.
Recent Changes
If the car has changed hands frequently in recent years, it might be a red flag. Investigate further to understand the reasons behind the changes.
What to Do If You Find Concerning Keeper History
If you discover concerning keeper history, here’s what you should do:
Discuss with the Seller
Talk to the seller about the keeper history. 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 car. They can provide an expert opinion on the car’s condition and whether the keeper history is a sign of problems.
Consider Walking Away
If the seller cannot explain the keeper history or provide additional documentation, it might be best to walk away from the deal. There are plenty of other cars available, and it’s better to avoid the risk.
Conclusion
Checking the keeper history is an important step when buying a used car. It helps you understand the car’s past and potential issues. Always use a reliable service like CarOwl to get a comprehensive vehicle history report. Stay safe and make informed decisions when buying a used car.
For more information, read our articles on The Importance of Vehicle History Checks and How to Conduct a Vehicle History Check.
