Stolen car check NZ: what to do if a vehicle is flagged
If a MotorWeb VIR® returns a stolen flag, do not proceed with the purchase. Buying a stolen vehicle in New Zealand (even in good faith) does not give you legal ownership. The Police can seize the vehicle, and getting your money back means pursuing the seller.
How does MotorWeb check for stolen vehicles?
Every VIR® checks whether the vehicle is reported stolen. This check happens automatically. A vehicle that has never been registered cannot be checked. You do not need to request it separately. If a stolen flag exists, the report highlights it prominently with instructions on what to do next.
MotorWeb also checks for security mismatches: cases where the plate, VIN or chassis number on a security registered against the vehicle does not match the vehicle’s record. It can be a clerical error by the lender, or a sign the security belongs to a different vehicle. Either way, resolve it before you buy.
Car theft in New Zealand
Thousands of vehicles are stolen in New Zealand every year. Stolen vehicles can re-enter the used car market through private sales, which is why every VIR® checks whether the vehicle is reported stolen.
Popular Japanese imports, common in NZ private sales, are among the most commonly stolen vehicles. This is why a stolen check is particularly important when buying privately.
What happens if I unknowingly buy a stolen car?
Under NZ law, you cannot gain legal title to a stolen vehicle even if you purchase it in good faith and pay full market value. If the Police identify the vehicle:
- The vehicle will be seized and returned to its owner or their insurer.
- You will not get the car back, and the Police will not compensate you for your loss.
- You may need to pursue the seller in civil court, often with little success if they cannot be located.
Unless you can recover it from the seller, the financial loss falls on the buyer. This is why checking before purchase is critical, not optional.
What to do if the vehicle is flagged as stolen
If your VIR® shows a stolen flag, do not hand over any money. Contact the Police to verify the vehicle’s status and report the listing details.
Contact NZ Police about a stolen vehicle:
- Call 105 (non-emergency, 24/7 from anywhere in NZ) to report the stolen vehicle or inquire about a flagged plate
- Report online at police.govt.nz via the 105 online service if lines are busy
- Call 111 if the situation is happening right now or someone is in danger
What else should I check when buying privately?
A stolen flag is one of many risks in a private sale. A complete VIR® also covers money owing, inconsistent odometer readings, ownership history and registration, before any money changes hands.