Buying a used car can feel a bit like hunting for buried treasure. There’s the thrill of the chase, the hope of a bargain, and—if you’re lucky—the satisfaction of driving away with a real gem.
But as many seasoned Australians know, the used car market can also be a minefield, with hidden dangers lurking beneath even the shiniest exteriors.
One overlooked detail could turn your dream car into a financial nightmare. So, what’s the secret to avoiding those expensive surprises?
According to automotive experts, it all comes down to one simple but crucial step: running a comprehensive vehicle history check before you sign on the dotted line.
Why a vehicle history check is your best mate
Let’s set the scene: you’ve found the perfect car. The price is right, the seller seems trustworthy, and the test drive was smoother than a Sunday drive down the coast.
But before you get swept up in the excitement, it’s time to pause and protect yourself.
A vehicle history check—often called an HPI check in the United Kingdom (UK), or a PPSR (Personal Property Securities Register) check in Australia—helps uncover important details like outstanding finance, helping buyers avoid being stuck with someone else’s problems. For a full vehicle history, additional private checks are recommended in Australia.
These checks can reveal a treasure trove of information, including:
- Outstanding finance: If the previous owner still owes money on the car, the finance company can legally repossess it—even if you’ve paid in full.
- Accident history: Was the car ever written off by an insurer? Has it been in a major smash that could affect its safety or value?
- Theft records: Is the car listed as stolen? If so, you could lose both the car and your hard-earned cash.
- Odometer tampering: Has the mileage been wound back to make the car seem less used than it really is?
- Registration and write-off status: Is the car legally allowed on the road, or has it been declared a statutory write-off?
As Kazimieras Urbonas, supplier excellence manager at Ovoko, puts it: ‘Buying a used car without doing proper research is like gambling with your money. The small cost of a background check is nothing compared to the peace of mind it provides, and the potential disasters it can help you avoid.’
When should you run the check?
It’s tempting to run a check on every car that catches your eye, but that can quickly add up.
The expert advice? Wait until you’ve found ‘the one’—the car you’re seriously considering, after you’ve inspected it and taken it for a spin.
Then, before you hand over any money or sign anything, run your check. This way, you’re not wasting money on cars you’re not likely to buy, but you’re still protected from nasty surprises.
Red flags that should make you walk away
Not all history check results are deal-breakers, but some should send you running for the hills. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Outstanding finance: Unless the seller can prove the debt will be cleared before you take ownership, don’t risk it.
- Stolen status: If the car is flagged as stolen, walk away immediately.
- Insurance write-off: Some write-offs are repairable, but many are not. Even if repaired, they may have hidden structural damage.
- Major mileage discrepancies: A small difference could be a clerical error, but a big gap often means tampering.
The real cost of skipping the check
It’s easy to think, ‘She’ll be right, mate’—but the reality is, skipping this step can cost you thousands.
Imagine buying a car, only to have it repossessed because of unpaid finance, or discovering it needs expensive repairs due to hidden accident damage. Suddenly, that bargain buy isn’t such a bargain after all.
In fact, experts in the used car parts industry see these stories all the time: buyers who were so focused on getting a good deal that they skipped the basic checks, only to end up with a dud that costs more to fix than it’s worth.
How to run a vehicle history check in Australia
In Australia, the go-to tool is the PPSR check. For a small fee (usually under $10), you can get a report that covers outstanding finance, write-off status, and whether the vehicle has been reported stolen.
For more detailed information—such as service history or odometer readings—you can turn to private companies that offer comprehensive vehicle history reports.
To run a PPSR check, you’ll need the car’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), which you can find on the registration papers or stamped on the vehicle itself.
A few extra tips for savvy seniors
- Always get everything in writing: If the seller promises to clear finance or fix an issue, make sure it’s in the contract.
- Check the seller’s identification card (ID) and proof of ownership: Make sure the name on the registration matches the seller’s ID.
- Trust your gut: If something feels off, don’t be afraid to walk away. There are plenty of cars out there!
The final word: Drive smart, buy smarter
Buying a used car can be one of life’s most rewarding purchases—but only if you take the time to do it right.
A quick vehicle history check can help ensure your hard-earned money goes towards a car that’s safe, legal and truly yours.
Have you ever been caught out by a dodgy used car deal? Or do you have a tip for fellow members on how to buy with confidence?
Share your stories and advice in the comments below—your experience could save someone else from a costly mistake.
Also read: Don’t sabotage your car deal: Five things you should never say to a dealer
