A closer look at vehicle history reports

According to the RAC, one in three cars have a hidden history so even if you do manage to find a used car that`s in great condition, that drives well and is within budget, you may still feel uneasy about its history, and whether the seller is reputable or not. Fortunately, there`s no need to live with nagging doubts - with a vehicle history report you can unlock the secrets of a vehicle`s past and establish whether it`s genuine before you part with your cash.

The benefits of a vehicle history report

Even if a car has a full service history and is well maintained, you still can`t be sure that it hasn`t been in a serious accident, written off or stolen and recovered. Investing in a good vehicle history report will allow you to find this out before you buy and can help you to decide whether or not you want to take on the risks that owning this sort of vehicle will invariably bring.

Vehicle history reports can also tell you whether the car is the subject of unpaid finance. If a previous finance agreement is outstanding, then the car is not yours to own and could be reclaimed by the finance company at any time - meaning you lose the car and your cash.

There are other problems to watch out for too, such as `clocked` mileage and `cut and shut` techniques. Spending a few pounds on a vehicle history report now could save you thousands in the long run, and spare you a lot of heartache and inconvenience too.

What does a vehicle history report tell you

A comprehensive vehicle history report will contain a whole host of valuable facts about a vehicle including:

- Keeper change date and information about its previous owners

- chassis number/VIN

- registration check and plate transfer data

- Whether it has been stolen and recovered

- Whether it has been written off or scrapped

- Whether finance is outstanding

- An import/export check to confirm whether it has been brought into the UK from overseas

- A mileage check to indicate whether it has been `clocked` (had its odometer adjusted)

- Police interest e.g. whether the car has been involved in a crime

- Colour changes

- An assessment of what the vehicle may be worth

Most companies who provide vehicle history reports will offer some form of insurance cover or guarantee on data accuracy. Prices range from £3.95 to £39.95.

Useful car buying tips

Always do your research first, rather than buying on impulse. Read reviews written by motoring experts and other owners and take note of any common faults or issues. Make a point of looking out for these when you do come to buy.

Check the insurance group of the vehicle as that will have a direct impact on the cost of your car insurance. Typically, cars with higher insurance groups, such as performance or prestige cars, cost more to insure as they tend to have higher repair and replacement costs.

Consider investing in a vehicle inspection as it can highlight any mechanical problems that may otherwise remain hidden until you take possession of the vehicle. This is particularly useful if you don`t have the skills, knowledge or experience to find such problems yourself.

Above all, shop around until you find the right car for you. These days there are a plethora of ways to locate cars for sale, including auto trading sites, auctions and newspaper, magazine classifieds and of course Cardata.co.uk !

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