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Check the VIN

The VIN (Vehicle identification Number) is the best way to check a car’s identity and make sure you’re not buying a stolen vehicle, or an accident write-off that’s been poorly repaired and put back on the road.

If you’re buying from a garage or reputable dealer then you shouldn’t have to worry, but buy privately or from a back-street dealer and you need to take care.

Before you view a car ask for the registration number and VIN so that you can get a vehicle history check carried out. This will provide key information such as the make, model and colour of the vehicle.

When you view the car ask to see the V5C (registration document) and make sure that the VINs on both match. You should also check with the DVLA (0870 240 0010) that the V5C is genuine.

A car’s VIN is displayed in several different places on a car, and they should all match the numbers on the V5C and history check. Look under the bonnet for the chassis plate or the VIN number stamped directly onto the car’s body. It should be clear and legible, with no missing or flaky paint in the surrounding area, nor should there be sticker placed over the number. Take your time and make sure it doesn’t look as if it’s been altered in any way.

Many cars have a visible VIN displayed at the bottom edge of one side of the windscreen. This should be clearly visible and match the other VINs. However, make sure it’s not a sticker or slip of paper placed at the bottom of the windscreen.

Some cars come with marked parts or tamper-proof stickers placed around the car. Look inside door apertures, on the edges of doors, around the edges of the engine bay and inside the boot. These should obviously match the other VINs.

Car windows and windscreens may also have the VIN etched into them, while the service book, service invoices and MOT certificates should also have the VIN printed on them.

Carry out all of these checks, and you stand a far better chance of not getting ripped off. Enterprising criminals may have tried to hide or change one or two numbers, so if things don’t add up walk away and call the police.