Read stolen indicators carefully
Additional motor vehicle records may include stolen indicators relating to the vehicle, its plate or its engine. If an indicator appears, ask the relevant police service to clarify it before proceeding.
The PPSR explanation of search results describes the limits of the additional NEVDIS information. An absent stolen flag does not prove that a vehicle has never been stolen.
Check the identity as well as the result
Plate and state
Use the registration displayed on the vehicle and the correct issuing state or territory.
VIN on the car
Compare the physical VIN with the paperwork and the report, character by character.
Seller documentation
Ask for documentation supporting the seller's connection to the vehicle.
Recorded warnings
Follow up a stolen indicator or identity mismatch before making payment to the seller.
Stolen vehicle questions
What should I do if a stolen indicator appears?
Pause the purchase and contact the relevant state or territory police service for clarification. Keep the report and vehicle identifiers available.
Does the report identify the registered owner?
A vehicle history report is not an ownership register or proof that the seller is entitled to sell the car.
What if the VIN looks altered or does not match?
Do not rely on the plate alone. Seek clarification from the appropriate authority and an independent vehicle inspection before proceeding.