When you plan to buy a pre-owned vehicle in the UAE, it is essential to check its accident history. This provides you with all the necessary information about the vehicle’s history, which ensures that the vehicle you are purchasing is reliable and safe for you and your family.
Similarly, it is equally useful when you sell your vehicle, as it provides the buyer with all the required information about the vehicle’s history. This helps buyers make a wise decision. Also, it is important to include all the information about the repairs and damages the vehicle has gone through when you sell it.
What is a VIN check?
Vehicle identification numbers, or VINs, were first used in 1989. Thus, it can be found in all cars manufactured after that year. The VIN is a 17-digit serial number consisting of letters, numbers and special characters that enable you to identify the car’s model, date, brand, and manufacturing location. It helps you verify the car’s authenticity and ensures that it wasn’t involved in any accidents or has had any significant repairs. A VIN check is required in the UAE to ensure a comprehensive vehicle history is available when purchasing a used car.
Why check accident history in the UAE?
When buying or selling a vehicle in the UAE, checking its accident history is crucial. It assures buyers that the vehicle is safe and reliable, giving them peace of mind that they are making a sound investment. On the other hand, sellers can demonstrate the value of their vehicle by providing a clear accident history, which can significantly impact its market value. Knowing a vehicle’s accident history helps make an informed decision, ensuring that potential safety issues are identified and addressed, thereby reducing the risk of future accidents on the road.
How to check a vehicle’s history in the UAE?
Ministry of Interior (MOI)
You can check the vehicle’s accident history through the Ministry of Interior; below are the steps:
- Go to the MOI website and enter the vehicle’s VIN for verification.
- When you enter the VIN, click Search, and your results will appear.
- If any accidents are recorded, the website will display the number of incidents, the location of the accidents, the accident report number, and further information.
It is important to know that only those vehicles registered in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah are accessible via the MOI website. The MOI website will display a vehicle’s accident history even if it was previously registered in another emirate before being moved to Dubai. The MOI website won’t provide information on whether a car has previously had a Dubai registration. Imported cars from the U.S., Japan or Europe that haven’t been registered at least once won’t provide any results either.
Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG)
You can check your car accident history via Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG); below are the steps:
- Go to the EVG website, use the Quick Search feature, or log in.
- After you click ‘Search’, a new screen with a list of the car’s recorded incidents will appear
- The ‘Plus’ and ‘Minus’ buttons at the top allow you to flip through the accident report if the car has been in many collisions.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is another key source for accessing vehicle-related information in the UAE.
Where can you locate VIN?
A VIN may be displayed in its full or abbreviated form. The last six characters of the vehicle identification number are combined to generate a unique chassis number. This is recorded on the vehicle’s registration documentation in addition to being referenced in several prominent locations on the actual vehicle like:
- On the car’s hood or bonnet’s underside
- On the doorjamb of the driver’s side
- On the frame’s front
- On the driver’s side, the windscreen is etched
- On the dashboard of the car
Why is VIN important?
When buying a used car in Dubai or the UAE, it is highly recommended that the VIN be verified for a comprehensive car history. Remember that you must ensure that the vehicle’s number and all other numbers on the documents match exactly. This is an extremely important step while evaluating, considering, and choosing a car. Here are some points that explain the importance of a VIN check:
Signs of fraudulent behaviour
Since the VIN and chassis number are shown in several locations within the vehicle, they should match everywhere. Any variation indicates that the vehicle has been changed, which might indicate fraud or other unlawful activity.
A brief overview of the vehicle’s history
The car manufacturer issues a VIN for future identification and traceability reasons, providing a comprehensive vehicle history. The VIN contains all of the information about the model, brand, date of manufacture, and manufacturing location. As a result, it should always match, and when entered into a system, it should quickly show the extended version of the data saved in the code.
Your role in an accident
A vehicle’s VIN must always correspond with the accompanying documents. If there is any discrepancy between the VIN shown on the car and that on the registration certificate, they can tell without a doubt that the vehicle has been tampered with somehow. It’s possible that the VIN display or chassis number has to be replaced or repaired in the event of an accident. Still, the chassis number or VIN should have been accurately repaired to match those on display; further investigation is required.
History of theft
The police, along with other agencies like the RTA, can use its database to verify whether a car’s VIN or chassis number has ever been reported stolen or used as an instrument for illegal activity. Thieves frequently alter or scratch a VIN plate’s information to evade detection or identification of the vehicle. It is imperative that you investigate what led to any damaged chassis number or VIN.
What to expect from a VIN check report
A VIN check report offers a comprehensive overview of a vehicle’s history, providing essential details that can influence your buying or selling decision. Here’s what you can typically expect from a VIN check report:
- Accident history: Detailed records of any accidents the vehicle has been involved in, including the date, location, and severity of each incident.
- Odometer readings: A log of the vehicle’s mileage over time, highlighting any discrepancies or signs of tampering.
- Ownership records: Information about previous owners, including their names, addresses, and the duration of their ownership.
- Vehicle specifications: Key details about the vehicle’s make, model, year, and other specifications.
This information is invaluable for understanding the vehicle’s past and ensuring it meets your expectations.
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Benefits of a VIN check
Conducting a VIN check offers numerous benefits for car buyers, sellers, and owners. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Informed decision-making: A VIN check provides critical information that helps buyers make well-informed decisions when purchasing a vehicle.
- Reduced risk: A VIN check can help reduce the risk of accidents or costly repairs by uncovering potential safety issues or hidden problems.
- Increased transparency: A VIN check promotes transparency in buying and selling, fostering trust between buyers and sellers.
- Improved vehicle value: A clean VIN check report can enhance a vehicle’s market value, making it more attractive to potential buyers.
These benefits underscore the importance of performing a VIN check before finalizing any vehicle transaction.
How to read a VIN check report
Reading a VIN check report can initially seem daunting, but understanding the information it provides is essential. Here are some tips to help you navigate a VIN check report:
- Start with the summary: The summary section briefly overviews the vehicle’s history, highlighting major issues or concerns.
- Review the accident history: Examine the accident history section to see if the vehicle has been involved in any accidents, noting the severity and details of each incident.
- Check the odometer readings: Verify the odometer readings to ensure they are accurate and consistent, looking for any signs of tampering.
- Review the ownership records: The ownership records contain the history of previous owners, including their names and addresses.
By following these steps, you can understand the vehicle’s history and make an informed decision.
Common mistakes to avoid when checking a vehicle’s history
When checking a vehicle’s history, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that can lead to inaccurate or incomplete information. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Not checking the VIN number: The VIN number is the key to unlocking a vehicle’s history. Ensure that the VIN matches the vehicle’s documentation.
- Not verifying the report: Always verify the report to ensure it is accurate and up-to-date.
- Not checking for red flags: Look for any red flags in the report, such as accidents, odometer tampering, or multiple previous owners.
- Not using a reputable service: Use a reputable service to obtain the report, ensuring the information is reliable and trustworthy.
Avoiding these common mistakes ensures a complete and accurate understanding of the vehicle’s history.
Suggestions for a successful VIN check
Here are some points that can be taken into consideration for a successful VIN check:
- Check the authenticity: To ensure consistency, cross-reference the VIN with the vehicle’s documentation.
- Watch out for red flags: Look for disparities in the car’s history or questionable facts pointing to potential flaws.
- Speak with experts: When in doubt, connect with legal consultants or automobile professionals to clarify complex issues. Understanding a vehicle’s past is crucial for making informed decisions when buying or selling a car.
Conclusion
Within Dubai’s ever-changing automobile scenario, the VIN stands for transparency and accountability. Knowing how to verify a VIN check is necessary for everyone involved in the vehicle industry, be it a buyer, seller, or enthusiast. You can look for a car with assurance and comfort through internet resources, careful inspections, and being on the lookout for any warning signs.
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