Car Check Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the information come from?
We use data from a range of data sources. These include the vehicle registry office, Irish Credit Bureau and sources within the motor industry in Ireland.
Is this the same as an HPI Check?
The short answer is yes. HPI Check is a term used in the UK to describe a history and finance check on a car.
Is the service we provide superior to Cartell?
While we use similar sources for our data, there are a number of key differences.
- Our outstanding finance check is instant, whereas you will have to wait for the Cartell finance check (Information verified 04/09/07)
- Cartell do not allow you to purchase an outstanding finance check on its own
- Our engineers use a full/static vehicle inspection ramp (this allows for a thorough inspection of the undercarriage of the vehicle)
- Our prices are significantly cheaper
Can we provide a report for motorcycles and vans?
Yes, we can check the history of cars, motorcycles and light commercial vehicles.
Is my on-line transaction safe?
Protecting your information is a priority. We therefore utilise Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) technology to protect all personal information including your card number, name and address when ordering a report from our website.
To confirm that your connection is secure, simply look at the lower right-hand corner of your browser window after accessing a server. If you see an unbroken key or a closed lock (depending upon your browser), the SSL is active and your information is secure. You can also double-check by looking at the URL line of your browser. When accessing a secure server, the first characters of the site address will change from 'http' to 'https.' Some versions of browsers and some firewalls don't permit communication even though the server is secure.
How long does it take to get my vehicle check results and how will I receive them?
The report is delivered on screen to you as soon as your request is processed (usually within a couple of minutes). You will also receive an email with a link to the report which is available for 30 days.
What do I do if the vehicle is recorded as scrapped?
If the vehicle is recorded as being scrapped, we strongly advise that you do not purchase it.
What do I do if the vehicle is recorded as a write-off?
A car is deemed to be a write-off if it has been declared a total loss by an insurer, usually after an accident or if it has been stolen and subsequently damaged. We strongly recommend you do not purchase the car.
What do I do if the vehicle has outstanding finance?
If your outstanding finance check highlights that the vehicle has outstanding finance on it, we recommend that you contact the seller directly to determine the vehicle's current status and ask for evidence in the form of a letter from their finance house to ensure that all finance owing is cleared before completing any final purchase agreement.
What do I do if the vehicle has a mileage anomaly?
If your history check highlights a mileage discrepancy this could mean that the mileage has been tampered with. We would advise you not to proceed with the purchase.
What if the history check shows the vehicle has a large number of previous owners?
If your check highlights the fact that the vehicle has had many previous owners, you should take this into account before proceeding with the purchase.
What if the last date of sale is recent?
It would be advisable to query with the owner why they are selling and to satisfy yourself that the reason given is genuine. If the seller has only recently bought the car they may be looking to off load an expensive repair. If the NCT has also expired be particularly cautious.
What if the history check shows the vehicle is not taxed or has no NCT
If the vehicle is not taxed or does not have a current NCT certificate you should ask the current owner why this is the case (beware if the car was only recently taxed or got the NCT it may not show up on the report).
What if the history check shows the vehicle was imported?
If your check highlights the fact that the vehicle has been imported, we would advise caution. It would certainly be advisable to undertake a car inspection. If you decide to proceed with the purchase you may also be able to use this information to secure a discount.
What if the history check shows the vehicle was used as a taxi or hired car?
These cars are likely to have done a lot of hard miles. Should you proceed, ensure the price paid reflects the much greater risk of costly repairs.
Can I get a report for a non-Irish registered vehicle?
No, but we will soon be offering this service
Can I conduct a Check over the phone?
Yes, our customer support team can conduct the check for you over the phone. The number is 01-7055537 Monday to Friday 9.00am – 6.00pm.
Is the price of a vehicle check online the same if I carry it out over the phone?
Yes, the price is exactly the same whether you do a check online or if you do it over the telephone.
What if my Internet connection is lost before I view my report?
If your local Internet connection fails after your credit card has been entered, but before you see your report online, please wait a few minutes for the email to arrive. If you are still experiencing problems please contact us on [email protected]
Who do I contact if I have difficulty in obtaining my report results?
First, please verify that the personal data you entered is correct and that your credit card information is valid. Then wait a few minutes for the email to arrive. If there is still a problem, please contact the Customer Services team on [email protected]
What about my privacy?
We are committed to protecting your privacy. User information is only used to support the checks we provide to you. This use includes, but is not limited to, order fulfillment, customer service, billing, collections and other similar functions. Except as noted otherwise, user information will not be shared with third parties for any purpose. Please see our Privacy Policy for more details.
What about my credit card information?
All credit card information you enter through the CarsIreland.ie site is transmitted via secure sockets layer (SSL) technology. Credit card information is never displayed or saved on our server. It is used solely to complete the transaction. Other than verifying credit card information, we will never willfully disclose credit card information to any third party for any purpose. Feel free to review our Privacy Policy.
