In Australia, the quickest car history check is a PPSR report using the VIN—it’ll flag write‑offs, stolen status and any finance/encumbrance so you don’t inherit a bank’s problem.
Cross‑check the VIN on the car with the rego papers, then eyeball service records and receipts for timing belts, fluids and recalls.
Compare odometer readings across logbook stamps and roadworthy certificates; creative arithmetic is a bigger red flag than a wet “Check Engine” light.
You can add recall checks via the manufacturer and government recall database, and many paid services bundle it all for a few dollars.
Shopping on Tradingpost or anywhere else, run the PPSR before handing over a dollar—it’s the cheapest insurance you’ll ever buy.
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