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Car Crime Advice Print
Always

Make sure all windows and your sunroof are properly closed, lock all doors and turn on any security devices you have when leaving your vehicle unattended Take care when choosing a parking space, particularly at night or if you are leaving the vehicle for a long time. Wherever possible, park in a busy, well-lit area.

Never

Leave cash, credit cards, mobile phones, vehicle documents or other valuables in the vehicle. If this is unavoidable, make sure they are well hidden before you begin your journey - thieves often watch you parking.

Keys

Keep your keys on your person in a safe place at all times. Never leave them in the vehicle - even for short periods. Treat them as you would your cash or credit cards. Make sure they are kept in a secure place when at home and work. Burglars often break into buildings to steal vehicle keys.

Logbooks

Since the DVLA's campaign encouraging buyers to examine logbooks carefully before handing over any money, vehicle documents are rapidly becoming a target for thieves. This is due to the fact that they will find it harder to sell the vehicle on without the logbook. Always keep your logbook in a safe place, and be especially cautious when a potential buyer views your vehicle. If the logbook is stolen along with your vehicle, it can be difficult to prove or disprove ownership.

The DVLA have warned us that a batch of blank logbooks have been stolen, which could accompany the sale of a stolen vehicle.

They fall between the following ranges:
AP 8022601 to AP 8024400
AP 9424801 to AP 9426600
AP 9430201 to AP 9432000
AP 9435601 to AP 9437400
AP 9448201 to AP 9450000
AP 9435601 to AP 9437400
AN 8854201 to AN 8856000
AN 8857801 to AN 8859600
AN 8856001 to AN 8857800

If you are in doubt about a vehicle's documentation, contact the DVLA on 0870 241 1878.

Remember

If you see anything unusual or suspicious, call the police immediately. In an emergency dial 999.

Buying a car

If you’re buying a vehicle privately and it’s later identified as stolen you may have no right in law to its ownership. Follow out tips to help you avoid becoming a victim of car crime.

  • View the vehicle at the address shown on the registration document
  • Ask the seller for proof of identity - make sure the person selling the vehicle has the right to do so
  • Never buy a vehicle without a registration document even if the seller says it has been sent to the DVLA for changes
  • Check the vehicle identification number (VIN) corresponds with the number on the registration document. This number can usually be found on a metal plate under the bonnet
  • If the VIN plate has been removed, ask why
  • Ensure you get a landline number – not just a mobile number
  • Check the locks on the car and make sure they do not differ (thieves often change locks they have damaged)
  • Check the mileage reading corresponds with the service history and past owners
  • Check if the vehicle has been seriously damaged, recorded as stolen, or is subject to outstanding finance.
  • Be sure before you buy - if in doubt walk away

And remember to inform the DVLA of any changes in vehicle ownership, registration details or driver details.

 
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