>> Home > Press office > Press releases > Archive from 2007 > Press release 16:DVLA warns motorists - check Registration Certificate (V5C) before buying a used vehicle.
DVLA has again warned motorists to be on the lookout for stolen registration certificates when buying a used vehicle. They are also reminding the public to call their hotline on 0870 241 1878 if they wish to check whether a certificate is genuine prior to the purchase of a vehicle.
Motorists are urged to check the serial number that appears at the top right hand corner of the registration certificate (V5C) before purchasing a used vehicle.If it falls within the range BG 9167501 to BG 9214000 they are advised not to purchase the vehicle.
These certificates have a different background colour on the Notification of Permanent Export (V5C/4) tear off slip on the second page, which looks mauve on the front and pink on the reverse. On legitimate documents they should be mauve on both sides.
DVLA issued a similar warning in February 2007, but is re-issuing the warning following indications that additional stolen documents might be in circulation.
he registration certificates are being used to accompany stolen vehicles that have had their identity changed to match that of a legitimate vehicle. This practice is known as cloning. The cloned vehicles are sold on to unsuspecting members of the public who can suffer significant losses if the vehicles are recovered.
Notes to editors:
All press enquiries should be directed to:
DVLA Press Office 01792 782318