Buying a used car can be a smart financial decision—if done right. While used vehicles often offer great value, they also come with risks that new cars do not. One of the most effective ways to protect yourself from these risks is to request a vehicle history report, specifically an InCar Checks report, before making any purchase. This report gives buyers deep insights into the car’s past, allowing for informed decisions that help avoid costly mistakes.
Below are the top five reasons every used car buyer should demand an InCar Checks report before committing to a deal.
1. Uncover Hidden Past Damage and Accidents
The most important reason to request an InCar Checks report is to uncover a vehicle’s accident history. Sellers may not always disclose major accidents or structural damage—either deliberately or unknowingly. However, a history of serious accidents can reduce the car’s reliability and resale value, and even pose safety risks.
- An InCar Checks report will reveal whether the car:
- Has been involved in road accidents
- Was written off by an insurer (Category A, B, C, or D)
- Has undergone structural repairs or airbag deployments
- Understanding the extent of past damage can help you determine if the car is worth buying or if you should walk away.
2. Detect Mileage Fraud and Odometer Tampering
One of the most common scams in the used car market is mileage fraud. Lower mileage often translates to higher resale prices, and unscrupulous sellers may tamper with the odometer to make a vehicle appear less used than it really is.
An InCar Checks report compares the vehicle’s mileage data from multiple historical records, including:
- MOT test readings
- Service history entries
- Manufacturer records
By detecting inconsistencies in mileage reporting, the report helps buyers avoid vehicles with potentially manipulated odometers—a red flag for hidden wear and tear.
3. Check for Outstanding Finance or Loans
Buying a car that has outstanding finance on it can lead to legal and financial complications. In many cases, if the previous owner has not cleared the finance agreement, the car still legally belongs to the lender—not the seller.
The InCar Checks report provides detailed finance information, including:
- Current finance status
- Finance provider name
- Agreement type (e.g., Hire Purchase, PCP)
- Outstanding balance (if available)
This ensures that the vehicle you’re planning to buy is free from legal ownership disputes and financial obligations.
4. Avoid Buying a Stolen Vehicle
It may sound surprising, but stolen vehicles are sometimes sold in the used car market—often unknowingly by private sellers. If you unknowingly purchase a stolen car, you risk losing both the vehicle and your money, since the police can seize stolen property at any time.
An InCar Checks report performs a real-time stolen vehicle check by verifying the car’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and registration number against national and police databases.
Key stolen vehicle indicators include:
- Matches in stolen vehicle databases
- Alerts from insurance theft records
- Police data flags
By identifying these threats early, you can avoid legal issues and financial loss.
5. Verify Vehicle Specifications and Authenticity
When buying a used car, you need to ensure that the vehicle matches the listing and meets your expectations in terms of specifications, engine details, and more. It’s not uncommon for sellers to misrepresent the car’s model year, trim level, or modifications to demand a higher price.
The InCar Checks report includes verified technical data directly from manufacturer and registration databases, including:
- Make, model, and trim level
- Engine size, fuel type, and transmission
- Year of registration and manufacture
- CO₂ emissions and tax bracket
- MOT history and roadworthiness
This verification helps you ensure that the car being sold is exactly what is being advertised, helping you negotiate confidently or walk away from deceptive listings.
When Should You Request the Report?
Ideally, you should request the InCar Checks report as soon as you identify a used car you’re interested in. Whether you’re buying from a dealer or a private seller, having this report early in the process can save you time and prevent wasted effort on unsuitable vehicles.
You can easily request an InCar Checks report using the vehicle’s registration number. The process is quick, affordable, and can be done online in minutes.
Final Thoughts
The used car market is full of great opportunities—but also potential pitfalls. Every buyer has the right to know exactly what they’re purchasing, and the InCar Checks report is one of the most reliable tools for achieving that.
From identifying past accidents to exposing mileage fraud and verifying legal ownership, the report provides a full 360° view of the vehicle’s history. If you’re serious about making a safe and smart purchase, don’t skip this step.
Demand an InCar Checks report—and buy with confidence.