How to Resolve Issues Found in Vehicle History Checks?

Hoo-hoo! Terry Twoo here, helping you make wise choices when buying a used car. Now, if you’ve run a vehicle history check and found a few issues, don’t panic just yet! Not every problem is a deal-breaker, but it’s important to know how to handle them. Some can be resolved, some can be negotiated, and others might mean it’s time to walk away. Let’s go through how to tackle each situation like a pro.

Steps to Resolve Issues in a Vehicle History Check

Hoo wouldn’t want to be caught off guard? Here’s what to do if your history check reveals concerns:

1. Talk to the Seller

Start by asking the seller about the issues. A trustworthy seller should be able to provide explanations and documentation to clarify the car’s history. If they dodge your questions, that’s a red flag!

2. Request Additional Documentation

Ask for service records, repair receipts, or MOT certificates. These documents can help verify whether repairs were done properly and if the car has been maintained well.

3. Get a Professional Inspection

If there are concerns about repairs, mileage discrepancies, or past damage, have a mechanic check it over. A professional can confirm whether the car is roadworthy and whether any hidden issues exist.

4. Negotiate the Price

Not all issues mean you should walk away—some can help you get a better deal. If the car has minor issues that you’re willing to fix, use them as leverage to lower the price.

Common Issues and How to Resolve Them

Here are some of the most common problems you might find in a history check and what to do about them:

Outstanding Finance

If the car has outstanding finance, ask the seller to pay it off before completing the sale. Request proof that the finance has been cleared to avoid any legal issues. You can confirm this with an outstanding finance check.

Insurance Write-Offs

Some written-off cars can be repaired and put back on the road, but not all are safe. If the car was a Category S or Category N write-off, ask for repair records and get a mechanic to inspect it before buying.

Stolen Vehicles

Hoo wants to buy a stolen car? Not you! If the history check flags the car as stolen, report it to the police immediately. Do not proceed with the purchase. Run a stolen vehicle check before committing.

Scrapped Vehicles

If a car has been scrapped, it shouldn’t be back on the road. Walk away from the deal and report the vehicle if necessary. Check for scrapped status with a scrapped vehicle check.

Mileage Discrepancies

If the recorded mileage doesn’t match the service history or MOT records, the odometer may have been tampered with. Ask for service records and have a mechanic verify the condition of the car.

High-Risk Records

If the car has been involved in major accidents or suffered flood damage, get a full mechanical inspection. Some damage might not be visible but could affect long-term safety and performance.

Colour or Plate Changes

A colour change or multiple plate changes isn’t always suspicious, but it’s worth checking why. Ask the seller for documentation and make sure it aligns with the car’s history.

Imported or Exported Vehicles

If the car has been imported or exported, make sure it meets UK safety and emissions standards. Some imported cars might need modifications before they’re fully legal to drive.

Multiple Previous Owners

If a car has had a long list of previous owners in a short time, find out why. Frequent ownership changes can indicate ongoing problems with the car.

Using Car Owl to Check Vehicle History

Hoo wants to be caught out with a bad deal? Not you! Running a check through Car Owl gives you a complete picture of the car’s past before you buy. Here’s how:

1. Go to the Car Owl history check page.
2. Enter the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN).
3. Receive a detailed report covering write-offs, finance, stolen status, and more.

Final Thoughts

Not all issues in a vehicle history check are deal-breakers, but ignoring them could lead to costly mistakes. Always verify information, get a professional opinion if needed, and use issues as leverage when negotiating.

Hoo’s ready to buy with confidence? You are! Stay wise, check before you buy, and drive away knowing you’ve made the right choice.