How to spot a stolen motorcycle or car before buying

Warning signs

Be wary of a price well under the going rate, a seller who wants to meet in a car park instead of at home, pressure to pay cash quickly, or excuses about the paperwork. Any of these is a reason to slow down.

Check the vehicle against the paperwork

The VIN on the vehicle should match the V5C, and the engine number too if you can see it. On a bike the VIN is usually stamped on the frame by the headstock. Scratched or ground-off numbers, or stickers that don't match, are serious warning signs.

Make sure the V5C looks genuine and the name and address match the seller. View it at the address on the log book.

• VIN matches the V5C.
• No damage to the ignition or steering lock.
• All keys and the V5C present.
• Viewing at the registered address.

How a full report helps

A full report checks whether the vehicle has been reported stolen. If it has, stop the sale and contact the police. A clear result only means nothing was recorded on the day you checked, so do the physical checks as well.

If something feels off

Don't confront the seller and don't hand over any money. Leave, then report it to the police on 101. If a crime is happening right now, call 999.