Owning a vehicle isn’t just about convenience; it’s a necessity. When delving into the second-hand car market, competitive prices and attractive deals often draw potential buyers. Yet, one crucial aspect that often gets overlooked in the buying process is the significance of checking the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle. Given the escalating vehicle theft rates, this step is not merely optional – it’s essential.
For those unfamiliar with how to access a vehicle’s history, platforms like carvertical.com/gb/vin-decoder provide a comprehensive overview of a vehicle by just inputting its VIN. In 2022, Greater Manchester witnessed an alarming surge in vehicle thefts. As reported by the Manchester Evening News, a total of 25,495 vehicles were stolen – a 5% hike from the previous year. To put this into perspective, this amounts to an alarming rate of about 9 cars stolen for every 1,000 households. Such statistics indicate that the chances of unintentionally purchasing a stolen vehicle are higher than anticipated.
Drilling down further, certain areas within Greater Manchester have been identified as hotspots for car thefts:
- Salford
- Bolton
- Oldham
- Manchester City Centre
- Trafford
The concentration of thefts in these regions makes it even more vital for residents and potential local car buyers to be cautious and carry out comprehensive vehicle checks.
Moreover, the kind of vehicles targeted by thieves is also worth noting. In Greater Manchester, the most coveted models are:
- Range Rover
- BMW
- Audi
- Ford Focus
- Vauxhall
If you’re in the market for one of these models, the significance of a thorough VIN check is doubly critical. A VIN is a unique 17-character identifier that is specific to each vehicle. By checking this number, buyers can access a car’s complete history, which includes details about any reported thefts, accidents, and more.
So, why is it of paramount importance to check the VIN?
- Verify the Legitimacy: Given the heightened theft rates, ensuring that the vehicle isn’t stolen is crucial. By comparing the VIN on the vehicle to the VIN on the paperwork and ensuring it matches with official records, you can ascertain its legitimacy.
- Protect Your Investment: Investing in a car is no small feat. Ensuring that your investment is safe and genuine can save you from potential financial and legal troubles down the line.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing the history of your vehicle, including its ownership, accident history, and potential theft records, offers peace of mind. This knowledge can influence decisions related to insurance, maintenance, and more.
- Avoid Legal Consequences: Unknowingly purchasing a stolen vehicle can lead to legal repercussions. Even if bought in good faith, the car can be repossessed, and the buyer might have to face legal inquiries.
- Uphold Civic Responsibility: Beyond personal reasons, ensuring the car you’re buying hasn’t been stolen upholds a sense of civic responsibility. By taking this step, you’re indirectly discouraging the market for stolen vehicles.
While the allure of a good deal on a pre-used vehicle is undeniable, ensuring its legitimacy should never take a backseat. Checking the VIN isn’t just a step in purchasing; it’s a shield against potential financial, legal, and ethical pitfalls. Given the startling theft statistics in Greater Manchester and the popularity of certain car models among thieves, prospective buyers are advised to tread with caution and arm themselves with knowledge.
