Check the car's ownership history

Find out how many owners the car had and how it was used.

Enter VIN Number

Buying a used car is a significant investment and requires careful consideration. Before finalizing your purchase, don’t rely solely on a visual inspection. It’s important to verify the seller’s information about the vehicle’s technical condition. Key factors to consider include the number of previous owners, the length of time the vehicle has been in service, and its previous usage (e.g., taxi, rental, private). These details can provide valuable insights into the car’s overall condition and help you make a well-informed decision.

Important things to look at when buying a used car

The number of previous owners, the vehicle’s usage, and the length of time each owner held the car can provide valuable insights into its condition. If the car has changed hands frequently in a short period, it might indicate a hidden issue that prompted previous owners to sell quickly. In such cases, proceed with caution.

A CheckCarz Vehicle History Report can offer detailed information about the number of previous owners and the duration of their ownership. It also reveals whether the vehicle was used for commercial purposes or privately, helping you make a more informed decision.

Buying the used car from a private seller? Check the car carefully

When purchasing a car from a private owner in another European country, it is crucial to gather as much information about the seller as possible. This is important because the EU Consumer Protection Act does not cover transactions between private individuals. Consumer protection measures, such as guarantees, only apply when a company sells to a consumer. Therefore, you won’t have the same legal recourse or protections in private sales, making it even more important to thoroughly vet the seller.

The link between mileage and number of owners

The relationship between the number of previous owners and the vehicle’s mileage is an important aspect to evaluate. Even if a car has had only one owner, it might not necessarily be in excellent condition. For instance, if the car was used as a service vehicle or by someone who frequently drove long distances, significant wear and tear can occur, regardless of how well the car was maintained.

Conversely, if a vehicle was owned by someone who used it infrequently, such as a secondary car kept mostly in the garage, it might have lower mileage and better condition. However, such cases are more rare and tend to be exceptions rather than the norm.

CheckCarz checks also include: