The used-car market in South Africa can be risky with many vehicles not being what they seem, which is why it is vital to check if a car is stolen before purchasing it. With an average of 85 cars stolen daily and 52 hijacked, stolen vehicles often end up in the second-hand market.
To avoid legal trouble and financial loss, it is crucial to verify a vehicle’s legitimacy before purchasing it. Here are seven ways to check if a car is stolen.
1. Use Online Stolen Vehicle Databases
There are several online platforms where you can check if a vehicle’s identification number (VIN) matches its registration papers. Two of the most reliable options in South Africa include:
- Stolen Vehicles – A database containing all reported stolen vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
- VIN Lookup SA – A service that provides details on a vehicle’s classification status and registered owner.
These databases offer a fast and efficient way to confirm if the details on the vehicle match its official records.
2. Verify with NaTIS
The National Traffic Information System (NaTIS) is the official platform that manages vehicle registrations in South Africa. By creating an account, you can access essential information such as:
- Title holder
- Engine number
- Registering authority
- Vehicle classification status
- Make and model
- Vehicle registration number
- Vehicle identification number
Using NaTIS to cross-check this information helps determine whether a vehicle’s documentation is authentic.
3. Contact SAPS
Before finalising a purchase, take the car’s registration number, VIN, and engine number to your nearest police station. The South African Police Service (SAPS) can verify if the vehicle has been reported as stolen or hijacked.
SAPS checks can be done on-site within minutes, but detailed reports requested online may take a day or two.
4. Inspect Vehicle Documentation
Fraudsters often create fake documents by using details from scrapped vehicles. To avoid being misled, ask for the following documents:
- Roadworthiness certificate
- Service book
- Proof of ownership
Also, ensure that the VIN and engine number on the car match those on the registration papers.
5. Look for Signs of Tampering
Criminals sometimes alter a vehicle’s details through etching—removing the original VIN and replacing it with another car’s information.
Check the following to spot signs of tampering:
- Ensure licence plates match the registration documents.
- Look for tool marks or damage around the plate area.
- Confirm that the VIN and engine number have not been altered.
6. Investigate Vehicle History Reports
Reputable companies such as TransUnion provide vehicle history reports for a fee. These reports include:
- Police checks
- Legal ownership verification
- Outstanding finance details
TransUnion is a trusted company in South Africa, ensuring the accuracy of the provided information.
7. Confirm with the Seller
Another way to confirm and check if a car is stolen is to ask detailed questions, especially if you are dealing with a private seller, about the car’s history, previous accidents, and ownership records. However, be cautious, as dishonest sellers may provide false information, which is why you should go the extra mile to check if a car is stolen or not before purchasing.
If you unknowingly purchase a stolen vehicle, report it to SAPS immediately for guidance on the next steps.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of buying a stolen car and protect yourself from potential financial and legal consequences.
Related article: State Vehicle Theft Crisis: Government Cars Targeted by Criminals in South Africa
