Vehicle identity check
A vehicle identity check verifies that a vehicle's registration number, VIN, and other identifying details match official records. This check helps buyers identify vehicles with identity issues, such as VIN mismatches or cloning, which can indicate fraud or stolen vehicles.
Why this matters
Vehicle identity issues can indicate fraud, cloning, or stolen vehicles. A vehicle with identity problems may not be the vehicle it claims to be, which can result in legal complications, repossession, or loss of your money. Verifying vehicle identity helps buyers ensure they are purchasing the correct vehicle with legitimate documentation.
What can happen if you skip it
- You may purchase a cloned or stolen vehicle
- You may face legal complications if the vehicle's identity is incorrect
- The vehicle may be repossessed if it is stolen or has identity issues
- You may lose both the vehicle and your money
- You may have difficulty registering or insuring the vehicle
- You may be unable to sell the vehicle later
What to look for before buying
- Run a vehicle history check to verify vehicle identity
- Verify the VIN matches the registration documents
- Compare the vehicle's details with official records
- Inspect the vehicle's VIN plate and engine number for tampering
- Compare the vehicle's details with official records
- Be cautious of vehicles with mismatched documentation
How a vehicle history check helps
A vehicle history check provides official records showing the vehicle's registration details, VIN, and other identifying information. This helps buyers verify that the vehicle's identity matches official records and identify any discrepancies, such as VIN mismatches, that may indicate fraud or identity issues.
What a Carpeep vehicle history check can show
- Theft and recovery status, including whether the vehicle has been reported stolen
- Write-off category (Cat S, Cat N, Cat A, Cat B, Cat C, Cat D) and date of write-off
- Outstanding finance agreements, including provider name, agreement type, and start date
- Mileage inconsistencies and potential odometer rollbacks, automatically flagged
- Keeper changes and number of previous owners
- MOT history timeline, including all test dates, pass/fail results, advisories, and recorded mileage at each test
- Vehicle identity verification
Related guides
Learn more about vehicle identity issues: What does stolen vehicle record mean? and What does colour change mean?
Frequently asked questions
How can I check a vehicle's identity?
You can check a vehicle's identity by running a vehicle history check using the vehicle's registration number. The check will verify that the registration, VIN, and other identifying details match official records. You should also physically inspect the vehicle's VIN plate and compare it with the documentation.
What is a VIN mismatch?
A VIN mismatch occurs when the vehicle's VIN does not match the VIN recorded in official records or documentation. This can indicate fraud, cloning, or identity issues and should be investigated before purchasing the vehicle.
What is vehicle cloning?
Vehicle cloning is the illegal practice of copying a legitimate vehicle's identity, including its registration number and VIN, onto a stolen or written-off vehicle. Cloned vehicles are fraudulent and should not be purchased. A vehicle history check can help identify potential cloning.
What should I do if I find identity issues?
If you find identity issues, you should not purchase the vehicle. Report the incident to the police and Trading Standards. Provide them with the vehicle's registration number and details of the identity issues you discovered.
Is it safe to buy a vehicle with identity issues?
No. You should not purchase a vehicle with identity issues. Identity problems can indicate fraud, cloning, or stolen vehicles, which can result in legal complications, repossession, or loss of your money. Always verify vehicle identity before purchasing.