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What should a car history check show before I buy in Ireland?

The short answer

A used-car history check in Ireland (around €30) should confirm there is no outstanding finance, the car has never been written off or recorded as stolen, the mileage reads consistently across NCT records, and the import and ownership history is clean. Run it on the registration before you pay any deposit.

Outstanding finance is the single most important thing a history check reveals: if money is still owed on the car, the finance company can repossess it even after you've paid the seller. The check should also flag write-off or insurance-total records, mileage discrepancies against recorded NCT readings, and whether the car was imported. Cross-check the result against the physical VIN and the logbook.

Related questions

What happens if a car still has finance owing on it?

If finance is outstanding, you do not get clear title, and the finance company can legally repossess the car even after you've paid the seller in full. Always confirm the finance status is clear before handing over any money.

Can a history check detect a clocked (wound-back) odometer?

It can flag likely clocking by comparing the current mileage to readings logged at past NCT tests. If the recorded readings don't rise consistently over time, treat the mileage as suspect and walk away.

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