How Do I Check if a Vehicle Has Been Reported Stolen?
When buying a used vehicle, one of the most critical steps is verifying that the car hasn’t been reported stolen. In the UK, vehicle theft is common, and many stolen vehicles end up on the second-hand market. If you unknowingly buy a stolen car, you risk losing both the car and your money. This guide will walk you through how to check if a vehicle has been reported stolen using the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN) and services like CarOwl to get reliable information.
Why Checking for Stolen Vehicle Status is Essential
Purchasing a stolen vehicle can have serious consequences. The police can seize the car without compensation, leaving you out of pocket. Additionally, if you sell a stolen car—even unknowingly—you could face legal consequences. Conducting a stolen vehicle check before buying can save you from these risks.
How to Check if a Vehicle is Reported Stolen Using the VRN
Here’s how to use the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN) to verify if a vehicle has been reported stolen:
- Obtain the VRN: The VRN is found on the car’s number plate and in the registration documents (V5C logbook). Ensure it matches across all paperwork.
- Use a Trusted Vehicle Check Service: Free services do not include stolen vehicle information. Use a reliable paid service like CarOwl, which accesses insurance and DVLA records.
- Enter the VRN on the CarOwl Website: Go to the CarOwl stolen check page and input the VRN to get a detailed report.
- Review the Report Carefully: The report will show whether the vehicle has been reported stolen, as well as other crucial details such as outstanding finance or write-off history.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Checking if a Vehicle is Stolen
Many buyers make common mistakes that can lead to problems down the line. Avoid these pitfalls when performing a stolen vehicle check:
- Relying on Free Checks: Free services often provide limited information and do not access stolen vehicle databases. For a full report, use a paid service like CarOwl.
- Ignoring Inconsistencies in the VRN: Make sure the VRN on the number plate matches the VRN on the V5C logbook. Any discrepancies could indicate a cloned or stolen vehicle.
- Overlooking Red Flags in the Report: If the report shows any alerts for stolen status, write-off history, or outstanding finance, proceed with caution and do not complete the purchase until further investigation.
Why CarOwl is the Best Option for Stolen Vehicle Checks
CarOwl offers a reliable and user-friendly way to check if a vehicle is reported stolen. Here’s why CarOwl is the top choice for UK buyers:
- Direct Access to Trusted Databases: CarOwl connects with DVLA and major insurance databases, providing accurate and up-to-date information.
- Comprehensive Vehicle Reports: In addition to stolen vehicle status, CarOwl also provides data on write-offs, outstanding finance, and any accident history, giving you a full view of the vehicle’s background.
- Quick and Simple Process: Simply enter the VRN, and get a detailed report in minutes, helping you make an informed purchase decision.
What to Do If the Vehicle is Reported Stolen
If the CarOwl report indicates that the car is stolen, here’s what you should do:
1. Do Not Complete the Purchase
Walk away from the transaction if you have any suspicion that the car is stolen. Proceeding could lead to legal trouble and financial loss.
2. Contact the Police
If the report confirms that the vehicle is stolen, notify your local police department. Provide them with the VRN and any details from the report to assist in their investigation.
3. Inform the Seller
If the seller seems unaware of the car’s status, let them know about the stolen vehicle check results. If they become defensive or refuse to provide more information, this is a strong warning sign.
Conclusion
Knowing how to check if a vehicle has been reported stolen is an essential part of buying a used car. By using the VRN and a trusted service like CarOwl, you can gain peace of mind and avoid costly mistakes. Don’t skip this important step—verify the vehicle’s history before making any purchase decision. With CarOwl, you can buy with confidence, knowing that you’ve done your due diligence.
