If you buy a vehicle privately, and later it is identified as stolen, you usually have no legal right to the vehicle, and you will probably end up out of pocket.
There are a few measures you can take to avoid this
Make sure that
the address on the V5 form is the same as the place where you are
viewing it.
Ask for proof of
the sellers identity, preferably a photo card such as a driving
license or passport.
Don't buy the vehicle
without getting sight of the original registration document, and
completing all the tear off sheets for sending to the DVLA. Take a
copy of the document for your records
Check that the
identification numbers on the vehicle, especially the VIN (Vehicle
Identification Number) number is the same as on the registration
document. The VIN number can usually be found either under the bonnet,
or on the dash visible through the windscreen. If there isn't a VIN
plate, or the seller cannot locate it, then think carefully before
making any purchase.
Don't hand over
large amounts of cash, use cheques or bankers drafts.
Be careful of a
seller who only gives a mobile phone number
Check the locks
on the car, are they all the same and original, if not, why?
Check that the
mileage relates to any service documents, MOT's etc.
Arrange for a vehicle
check to be run to ascertain if there is outstanding finance, or
a hidden history. Auteco can arrange this for you, Visit
our Vehicle
Data Check page for further information.
Be absolutely sure
before you buy - if you have any doubts - walk away.
