Buying a car—especially a used one—can be an exciting milestone.
But in South Africa, where vehicle theft remains a serious issue, it’s essential to make sure the car you’re purchasing isn’t stolen or illegally cloned.
Failing to do so can result in financial loss or even criminal charges.
Here are seven reliable ways to check if a car is stolen in South Africa before you sign the dotted line.
1. Check the VIN and engine numbers carefully
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and engine number are like a car’s DNA. Always check that:
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The VIN on the vehicle matches the one on the registration papers.
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The VIN and engine number appear consistently across the license disc, vehicle documents, and physical car (usually stamped on the chassis and engine block).
If there are discrepancies, or if the numbers look tampered with, this could be a sign of a cloned or stolen car.
2. Request a police clearance or SAPS check
Take the vehicle’s details (VIN, registration, and engine number) to a SAPS Vehicle Clearance Office. They can verify whether the car is listed in the stolen vehicle database.
You can also request a Police Clearance Certificate, which confirms that the vehicle isn’t stolen or involved in criminal activity.
Never rely solely on the seller’s word—get official verification.
3. Use eNatis and licensing department services
The National Traffic Information System (eNatis) holds data on all registered vehicles in South Africa. You can visit a Licensing Department or use the eNatis portal to:
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Verify registration details.
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Check the car’s history and legal status.
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Ensure the vehicle hasn’t been deregistered or flagged.
4. Run an Online Vehicle History Check
There are private services that compile vehicle history from insurance databases, police records, and financial institutions:
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FirstCheck: Quick report using the VIN or license plate.
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TransUnion Auto: Offers full vehicle reports, including if the car has been stolen, written off, or has outstanding finance.
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[Gumtree Auto Check]: If buying via online marketplaces.
These checks can be done in minutes and cost far less than the loss of a stolen vehicle.
5. Inspect ownership and registration documents
Ask to see:
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The original registration certificate (RC1).
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Proof of ownership and a valid ID.
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A current roadworthy certificate.
Watch for:
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Documents in someone else’s name.
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Excuses about missing paperwork.
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Inconsistencies between the seller and registered owner.
If the seller can’t prove they legally own the car, walk away.
6. Visit a police station for a direct check
If you’re unsure, take the car’s details to a local SAPS station. Officers can:
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Run a quick check through national databases.
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Advise you on red flags or documentation issues.
This is especially useful when buying from private sellers, where fraud risk is higher.
7. Investigate the seller’s credibility
If the seller is a dealership, ensure they are:
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Registered with the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA).
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Willing to provide a full service history.
For private sellers:
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Verify their ID against the ownership documents.
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Confirm they’re not selling the car on someone else’s behalf.
If the seller avoids your questions or pressures you to close the deal quickly, that’s a sign to back off.
Conclusion
Due diligence is your best protection when buying a car in South Africa. Use these seven checks to make sure you’re not buying a stolen or illegally modified vehicle.
Remember: if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.
