Using online vehicle registration databases, closely inspecting documentation, scanning for suspicious parts, and getting vehicle history reports are just some ways in which you can ensure that a particular used car you’re interested in wasn’t stolen.
The used-car market in South Africa is fraught with sketchy deals that are not what they appear to be.
With an average of 85 vehicles being stolen across the country every single day, and 52 hijacked, there are many thieved examples circulating the used market.
“If you are looking to buy a new vehicle, it is important to know how to avoid falling victim to this trap,” writes vehicle telematics firm Cartrack.
“Buying and selling a stolen vehicle can lead to legal troubles and, in some cases, financial loss.”
Cartrack provides the following advice for people who are trawling used-car dealers in search of a bargain.
Use online stolen vehicle databases
The internet offers many websites where you can check if a vehicle identification number (VIN) matches the vehicle’s registration papers.
The two most popular optoins in South Africa are:
- Stolen Vehicles – A database of all stolen vehicles in South Africa, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
- VIN Lookup SA – Can be used to check the vehicle classification status, and who it belongs to.
“These databases are a quick and convenient way to verify whether the details engraved on the car match the registration papers,” said Cartrack.
Verify with Natis
The National Traffic Information System (Natis) is a platform implemented by the Department of Transport that manages the country’s vehicle registrations and handles licensing and accident data.
To get access to vehicle information on the website, you need to register an account. Once registered, you will have access to the following data:
- Title holder
- Engine number
- Registering authority
- Vehicle classification status
- Make and model of the car
- Vehicle registration number
- Vehicle identification number
- Date of Liability for first licensing
- Control number (NaTIS model number)
“Using Natis to verify a vehicle is a simple way to determine whether a vehicle’s documents are fraudulent,” said Cartrack.
Contact SAPS
Should you be able to collect all the vehicle details before the purchase, such as the registration number, VIN, and engine number, go to the police station to check if a vehicle has been stolen.
“The South African Police Service (SAPS) will be able to tell you if the vehicle has been reported stolen or hijacked and that the VIN and engine number match the vehicle’s registration documents,” said Cartrack.
Checks done at the SAPS could take a few minutes, while detailed reports requested online may take a day or two.
Inspect vehicle documentation
Criminals are very sly and use various ways to create fake vehicle documents to fool unsuspecting buyers.
They do things such as purchase a similar scrapped vehicle from a scrap yard or auction and then use that vehicle records to falsify the registration papers for the stolen example.
“That is why it is important to request documents such as a roadworthiness certificate, the service book, as well as proof of ownership,” said Cartrack.
It is also vital to check that the VIN and engine number on the vehicle match the vehicle documents.
Look for signs of tampering
Criminals have been known to clone cars to make stolen models appear legitimate.
This is done through etching, a process in which the original VIN and engine number are removed and replaced with other legitimate vehicle details.
To avoid being a victim of this, you should check that the licence plates match the registration documents, and that there are no signs of damage or tampering around the plate area, such as tool marks.
Furthermore, ensure that the VIN and engine number have not been tampered with and that they match the information on the vehicle’s documents.
Investigate vehicle history reports
You can get vehicle history reports from a reputable company such as Transunion to ensure that a vehicle is legitimate.
“Transunion is a trusted company in South Africa, so you can feel confident that the information you receive is accurate and trustworthy,” said Cartrack.
For a fee, you will be able to receive reports on police checks, confirm legal ownership updates, and determine if any money is owed on the vehicle.
Confirm with the seller
While it may be a long shot, it is a good idea to start the buying process by asking the seller as many questions as possible about the car’s history, and asking if it has ever been in an accident or perhaps stolen.
This is especially important if you’re considering buying a second-hand vehicle from a private seller.
“But be careful; the seller may not be truthful,” Cartrack warned.
Should you be in the unfortunate position of having bought a stolen vehicle without your knowledge, you should go to the SAPS and report it to them immediately to get assistance on what to do, Cartrack concludes.
Loading ...
