Stolen Vehicle Check

Buying a stolen car means you can lose both the vehicle and your money — police can seize it and you have no legal title. A stolen check matches the VIN and number plate against national theft records.

How a stolen check works

The vehicle’s VIN and plate are checked against the National Exchange of Vehicle and Driver Information System (NEVDIS) and the PPSR, which record vehicles reported stolen to police across Australia.

Warning signs of a stolen or “rebirthed” car

• Mismatched or tampered VIN plates, or a VIN that doesn’t match the registration papers.
• A price that seems too good to be true.
• A seller reluctant to meet at a registered residential address, or who lacks proper paperwork.

What to do if a car is flagged

Do not buy it. Report your concerns to police, and never hand over money for a vehicle you cannot verify.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if a used car is stolen?

Check the VIN and plate against national records, verify the VIN matches the registration papers, and be wary of tampered VIN plates or prices well below market.