How Can I Find Out If I Bought a Stolen Car?
Discovering that the car you bought might be stolen can be a nightmare for any buyer. In the UK, thousands of vehicles are reported stolen every year, and some end up being sold to unsuspecting buyers. If you suspect that the vehicle you purchased could be stolen, it’s important to act quickly. This guide will walk you through how to find out if you bought a stolen car, using the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN) and reliable services like CarOwl to verify the car’s history.
Why It’s Important to Verify If Your Car Is Stolen
If the car you bought has been reported stolen, it could be seized by the police, leaving you without a vehicle and no way to recover your money. Additionally, possessing a stolen vehicle—even unknowingly—could lead to legal issues. It’s crucial to verify the car’s status to protect yourself from potential problems.
Signs That You May Have Bought a Stolen Car
Before diving into the verification process, look for these warning signs that might indicate the car you purchased is stolen:
- Mismatched VRN on Documents: The Vehicle Registration Number (VRN) on the number plate doesn’t match the VRN on the V5C logbook or other documents.
- Missing Service History: The car lacks a full service history, or there are gaps in the records that can’t be explained by the seller.
- Unusually Low Purchase Price: The vehicle was sold at a significantly lower price than similar cars on the market, which could be a tactic to offload a stolen car quickly.
- The Seller Refused to Provide the VRN: If the seller was hesitant to share the VRN before the sale, this could be a red flag.
How to Check If You Bought a Stolen Car Using the VRN
If you suspect that your car might be stolen, follow these steps to verify its status using the VRN:
- Gather the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN): The VRN can be found on the car’s number plate and on the registration documents (V5C logbook). Make sure these details match.
- Visit the CarOwl Stolen Check Page: Go to the CarOwl website and enter the VRN to request a full vehicle history report.
- Review the CarOwl Report Carefully: The report will indicate if the vehicle has been reported stolen. It will also provide information on outstanding finance, write-offs, and any accident history.
- Cross-Check with the DVLA and Local Authorities: If the CarOwl report suggests the car might be stolen, contact the DVLA and your local police department to verify the information.
What to Do If the Car You Bought Is Stolen
If the verification process confirms that the vehicle is stolen, here’s what you need to do next:
1. Contact the Police Immediately
Notify your local police department as soon as possible. Provide them with the VRN and any relevant details from the CarOwl report. The authorities will guide you on the next steps.
2. Inform the Seller
Reach out to the seller and let them know about the results of your stolen vehicle check. If the seller is unresponsive or denies knowing anything about it, this could indicate intentional fraud.
3. Gather All Documentation
Keep copies of all documents related to the purchase, including the bill of sale, the V5C logbook, and any communication with the seller. These documents can help prove that you acted in good faith.
4. Consult with a Legal Expert
If you’re facing issues recovering your money or dealing with legal complications, consult with a solicitor who specialises in automotive law. They can provide guidance on how to proceed and protect your interests.
How CarOwl Can Help You Verify Your Vehicle’s History
CarOwl offers a fast and reliable way to check if your vehicle has been reported stolen. Here’s why CarOwl is the preferred choice for UK car owners:
- Access to Accurate Data: CarOwl connects with the DVLA and major UK insurers, providing up-to-date information on the vehicle’s status.
- Comprehensive Reports: In addition to checking for stolen status, CarOwl provides details on write-offs, outstanding finance, and accident history.
- Quick and User-Friendly Process: Enter the VRN on the CarOwl website, and receive a detailed report in just a few minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Verifying Your Car’s Status
Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for when checking if the car you bought is stolen:
- Ignoring the Report’s Alerts: Pay close attention to any alerts in the CarOwl report, such as a stolen status or outstanding finance. Investigate these issues thoroughly before taking further action.
- Relying Only on Free Checks: Free online checks may not provide comprehensive data. Use a trusted paid service like CarOwl for a full vehicle history report.
- Not Double-Checking the VRN: Ensure that the VRN you entered matches the number plate and the V5C logbook. A small typo can lead to incorrect results.
Conclusion
If you suspect that you might have bought a stolen car, don’t panic. Follow the steps outlined in this guide to verify the car’s status and take appropriate action. By using the VRN and a trusted service like CarOwl, you can access comprehensive data and get the clarity you need. Protect yourself and your investment by acting quickly, and consult with the authorities and legal experts if necessary.
