When buying a used car, it’s essential to check if it’s safe and legal to drive. Some people sell vehicles that have been written off or destroyed, which can be dangerous. That’s why you should get a scrapped car check before buying a used car. This check will help you determine if the vehicle is safe to drive.
What is meant by a “scrapped car” ?
In the UK, a “scrapped car” is a vehicle that has reached the end of its life and is no longer roadworthy or repairable. It may have been damaged beyond repair, failed its MOT (Ministry of Transport) test, or been too expensive to fix. When a car is destroyed, it is dismantled and recycled for its parts and materials.
It is illegal to drive a discarded car on the road in the UK, and the owner must ensure that it is correctly disposed of to avoid any legal issues.
What is a certificate of destruction, and why is it important?
A Certificate of Destruction (COD) is a legal document that confirms a vehicle has been scrapped and will not be returned to the road. In the UK, when a car reaches the end of its life and is no longer roadworthy or repairable, it must be appropriately disposed of by an authorized treatment facility (ATF). The ATF will issue a COD to the vehicle’s owner to show that it has been abandoned and will not be used again.
The COD is essential because it proves the vehicle has been legally discarded and is no longer registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). This means that the owner will not be liable for any fines or penalties associated with the vehicle, such as road tax or insurance. It also ensures that the car will not be sold to an unsuspecting buyer who may be putting themselves in danger by driving an abandoned car that is unsafe to use on the road.
Why do you need a DVLA scrapped car check?
Metal theft and salvaging cars for parts are significant problems, and unscrupulous individuals often try to profit by selling destroyed vehicles that have been repaired with poor-quality parts. This can put the buyer at risk financially and in terms of safety on the road. It is crucial to do your research and thoroughly check any used car before making a purchase.
Using a car history check report ensures that the vehicle you are considering buying has not been illegally repaired or rebuilt.
What is the difference between a written-off car and a scrapped car ?
Understanding the difference between a written-off car and a scrapped car is essential. While some written-off cars can be repaired and deemed safe for the road, scrapped cars are beyond repair and cannot legally be driven. When a car is marked as discarded, it has reached the end of its useful life due to either age or severe damage.
When a car is discarded, it must be destroyed at a scrapyard and can only be used for parts. It’s essential to check if a vehicle has been abandoned before purchasing it to ensure it’s safe to drive on the road. The easiest way to do this is to run the car’s registration number through our system, bringing up its complete history and any information on whether it has been destroyed.
How can I check if a car has been scrapped?
The easiest way is to get a car history check online. This check includes a car scrap check, which utilizes data from the DVLA to examine the car’s history and see if it has ever been registered as scrapped. It’s important to note that if a vehicle has been marked as discarded, you should not consider purchasing it. Unlike written-off cars that can be repaired to a roadworthy condition, discarded vehicles are beyond repair and cannot be legally driven on the road or sold.
How long does it take for a vehicle to be scrapped?
In the UK, it may take up to a month for any changes in the scrapped status of a vehicle to be updated in the DVLA database. However, based on our experience, this process typically takes less time.
If you have already purchased a car or van that has been scrapped, you may be eligible to claim on your GAP insurance policy, assuming you have one. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to carefully read the policy’s terms and conditions, as it may only sometimes provide coverage. If you don’t have GAP insurance, we recommend reading our guide on the subject and using a voucher code to receive a £20 discount on an ALA Gap Insurance policy.
In conclusion, if you need clarification on whether a vehicle has been scrapped, obtaining a vehicle check is always best to ensure total peace of mind before making a purchase.
FAQ
1.Is buying a scrapped car a wise idea?
Buying a discarded car is not a good idea as it can pose safety risks and may not be roadworthy.
2.How does a car get scrapped?
A car usually gets disposed of when it reaches the end of its life, either due to age or damage. It is then taken to a licensed scrapyard, where it is dismantled and destroyed, and the usable parts are sold for recycling.
3.Can DVLA scrap without V5C?
No, the DVLA cannot scrap a vehicle without the V5C registration document. The V5 is required as proof of ownership before the DVLA can officially scrap the vehicle.
4.Can you scrap a vehicle with outstanding finance?
It is not advisable to scrap a car with outstanding finance as the ATF will check for finance and may refuse to scrap it. You’ll need to gain ownership or make temporary repairs and continue using the car until the finance is cleared.
