Check a car by its VIN
Before you go to see a car, ask the seller for the VIN. In a few minutes you’ll know whether the mileage is real, whether the car was damaged and what it looked like before. An honest seller has no problem giving you the number.
carVertical report
One report from databases in many countries – especially important for an imported car. It includes, among other things:
- mileage history and rolled-back odometers
- damage history and repair costs
- photos of the car from the past
- market price
- specification and equipment
- safety ratings
The VIN is in the registration certificate (field E) and under the windscreen – ask the seller for a photo.
Historia Pojazdu (gov.pl)
For cars registered in Poland: mileage from roadworthiness tests, OC and test validity. You need the VIN, the registration number and the date of first registration. The site is in Polish and doesn’t show the history from before the car came to Poland – that’s what a report from foreign databases is for.
Open historiapojazdu.gov.plWhere to find the VIN
Registration certificate
Field E – 17 characters (letters and digits, no I, O or Q).
Under the windscreen
A plate visible from outside, usually on the driver’s side.
On the body
The type plate and the number stamped on the body – usually in the engine bay or under a seat.
All three numbers must be identical. If they differ or the plate looks tampered with – walk away from the deal.
What to look for in the report
- Whether the mileage readings keep increasing – a drop or a big gap in the history is a warning sign.
- Damage and its cost – a minor bump is different from a repair costing tens of thousands.
- Photos from listings and auctions – whether the car was sold as damaged.
- Countries where the car was registered and the number of owners.
- Whether the version, engine and equipment match the listing.