MotorRegistry Blog

Fake buyers are pressuring sellers into paying for a vehicle history report from a website they secretly run. Here's how to spot the trick, what you actually have to provide when you sell, and how to get a report you can trust.

You list your car, and within the hour a keen buyer messages you. They sound ready to commit. There's just one thing they need first: for you to grab a vehicle history report from one particular website, and they'll send you the link.

Don't do it. It's a scam, and right now it's all over Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree and Carsales.

How it works

The whole thing is back to front. Checking a car's history is the buyer's job. A genuine buyer does their own homework before handing over any money. This "buyer" flips that around: they want you, the seller, to pay for the report, and only from the exact site they've nominated.

That site belongs to them. You pay, the money goes straight to the scammer, and the "report" you get back is fake or blank. The details you typed in along the way can be worth even more to them than the fee: your card number and personal information can be used for further fraud, or quietly rolled into a recurring subscription you never agreed to. The price is kept small and reasonable on purpose, because it's easier to pay a few dollars than to stop and argue about it.

The dead giveaways

• They insist on one specific website you've never heard of. A real buyer doesn't care which provider you use, because they'd rather run the check themselves.
• They want you to pay for the report. That's the reverse of how a car sale actually works.
• They're in a hurry. "I'll buy it today, I just need you to run this check first."
• They won't inspect in person or take a call, and they try to move the conversation off-platform to text or WhatsApp.
• They send you a link. Don't click it. It can lead to a phishing page or drop malware on your phone.

There's a related trap worth knowing about. If a "buyer" texts you a six-digit code and asks you to read it back "to prove you're a real person", stop. That code is being used to hijack your phone number and set up a Google Voice account in your name. Never share a verification code with anyone, for any reason.

What to do

Never buy a history report just because a buyer told you to. If they want reassurance, they're free to run their own check. A real buyer will, a scammer won't. Don't click links from strangers, keep the deal on the platform you listed on, and meet in a safe, public place. If something feels off, report it to Scamwatch.

And if you'd like a report of your own to help your sale, which genuinely does help, choose the provider yourself. Never let a stranger pick it for you.

Do you even have to provide one?

Mostly, no. If you're selling privately, you are not legally required to hand over a vehicle history report or a PPSR certificate at all. You do have to genuinely own the car and not be hiding finance owing on it, but producing a certificate isn't compulsory. Dealers are a different story: everywhere in Australia, a licensed dealer has to guarantee clear title and, on eligible cars, provide a statutory warranty.

What you do have to provide as a private seller depends on your state, and it's usually the roadworthy, not the history report, that catches people out:

• QLD - A Safety Certificate is needed to sell or transfer a registered car, and it has to be displayed from the moment you advertise. You won't need one if you're selling the car unregistered or to a dealer.
• VIC - A Certificate of Roadworthiness is needed for a private sale, and it can't be more than 30 days old at the point of transfer, unless you're selling unregistered or to a licensed trader.
• NSW - A pink slip is tied to your registration renewal, not the sale itself. If you transfer a car with current rego, you don't need one just to sell it.
• SA, WA and TAS - No roadworthy is required for a private sale. The buyer takes on responsibility for roadworthiness once they've bought it.
• ACT and NT - Inspection requirements depend on your registration and the age of the vehicle at transfer.

The one rule that applies everywhere: lodge the transfer or notice of disposal promptly, usually within 14 days (7 in the ACT). That's what stops the new owner's fines and tolls from landing back on you.

Rules do change, so check the current requirements with your state transport authority before you sell.

Get a report that actually tells you something

A basic check confirms the legal status of a car: whether there's finance owing, whether it's been reported stolen or written off. That's useful, but it tells you nothing about what the car has actually been through.

That's the part we care about. A MotorRegistry report includes the official PPSR certificate and then goes a lot deeper, surfacing the things that tell you whether a car really is what the seller says it is:

• Service history - how well the car has actually been looked after over its life.
• Damage that never made the write-off register - plenty of serious repairs never reach that threshold, and we're built to surface them.
• Deep odometer records - a full trail of readings over time rather than a single number, so a wind-back has nowhere to hide.
• Location and movement history - where the car has lived and where it's been.
• Recall and service-campaign resolution - not just whether a recall exists, but whether the work was ever actually done.

If a history report is going to tell you this much, it'll be ours. We're a real, identifiable Australian business with secure payment and the official PPSR certificate built in, not a mystery link a stranger sent you.

So if a "buyer" ever insists you buy a report from their website before they'll commit, walk away. Real buyers do their own checks. Real reports come from a provider you chose. Get one on your own terms, from a source that actually tells you what's happened to the car.

What used EV buyers and sellers need to know

MotorRegistry Intelligence (MRI) platform data has revealed a significant spike in battery electric vehicle (BEV) interest within Australia's used car market. In March 2026, EV-related vehicle history report requests nearly tripled compared to the prior month, and when normalised against total report volume, demand was roughly three times higher than the 2025 monthly average. Early April data suggests the momentum is continuing at a similar pace.

The timing is no coincidence. The escalation of conflict in the Middle East and the disruption of the Strait of Hormuz in early March sent fuel prices surging - unleaded petrol climbed above $2.50 per litre nationally, with diesel exceeding $3.00 in parts of Sydney. New EV sales tell a similar story: BEVs reached a record 14.6% market share in March with 15,839 units registered, up 88.9% year-on-year.

A window for sellers of 3–5 year old EVs

For owners of EVs purchased between 2021 and 2023, the current market presents a strong opportunity to realise better resale values.

Used EV stock remains tight - EVs still account for less than 1% of the broader used car market despite now representing over 10% of new sales. Auction house Pickles reported second-hand EV sales in March were up 60% on February, with 82% of used EVs selling under $50,000. Commonwealth Bank reported a 161% lift in EV finance enquiries from the start of March alone.

If you own a Tesla Model 3, Hyundai Ioniq 5, BYD Atto 3, or similar model from this period, your vehicle sits in a sweet spot - modern enough to have competitive range and features, and likely still covered by the manufacturer's battery warranty.

What buyers should check

For those entering the used EV market, a few checks differ from a traditional used car purchase.

Battery health

The battery pack is the most expensive component, so understanding its condition is critical. The good news is that real-world data consistently shows batteries holding up better than early sceptics predicted.

Geotab's 2026 study of over 22,700 EVs found an average annual degradation rate of 2.3%. At that rate, a five-year-old EV typically retains around 88–90% of its original capacity. A separate UK study by Generational analysing over 8,000 EVs found an average state of health of 95.15%, with 8–9 year old vehicles still retaining a median capacity of 85%. University of Michigan research published in early 2026 confirmed that batteries manufactured from 2019 onwards show significantly improved resilience compared to earlier generations.

The real issue is variance - two identically aged EVs can have quite different battery health depending on how they were charged and driven. Most EVs don't display state of health to the buyer, so request a diagnostic check through an authorised dealer or use an OBD-II scanner with an EV-specific app.

Charging compatibility

EVs sold in Australia from 2019 onwards generally use Type 2 (AC) and CCS2 (DC) connectors, compatible with the vast majority of public infrastructure. Older models need extra attention - early Nissan Leafs use CHAdeMO (being phased out, no adapter to CCS2 exists), pre-2018 BMW i3s use Type 1 CCS, and pre-2020 Tesla Model S/X have a modified Type 2 port requiring an adapter for non-Tesla DC charging. Always confirm the portable charging cable is included - replacements cost several hundred dollars.

Model-specific considerations

The first-generation Nissan Leaf uses air-cooled batteries rather than liquid cooling, meaning degradation can be significantly higher in warmer climates like Queensland. Older Tesla Model S/X vehicles may still run the original MCU1 infotainment unit (pre-March 2018), which is prone to eMMC chip failure. Grey-imported EVs may have non-Australian language software and may not receive over-the-air updates.

Check whether the manufacturer's battery warranty transfers to a second owner - most Australian-delivered EVs carry 7–8 year, 150,000–160,000 km battery warranties guaranteeing a minimum of 70% SoH.

The bigger picture

What the MRI data shows clearly is that Australians are actively researching used EVs at a rate we haven't seen before. For sellers of 3–5 year old electric vehicles, the combination of constrained supply, rising fuel costs, and strong residual battery health makes this an opportune time. For buyers, the used EV segment offers genuine value - provided you do your homework on battery condition, charging compatibility, and model-specific considerations.

A vehicle history report from MotorRegistry provides a comprehensive picture - covering registration and location history, odometer records, service history, damage assessments, written-off status, and outstanding finance - essential checks before committing to any used car purchase.

Selling a used car can be both an exciting and daunting experience. Whether you're upgrading to a new vehicle or simply want to get rid of an extra car, the process requires careful planning and consideration. In this guide, we'll walk you through the best practices for selling your used car in Australia and how to protect yourself throughout the process.

Step 1: Prepare Your Car for Sale

Before listing your car, make sure it’s in the best possible condition. Here’s what you need to do:

Clean and Detail Your Car

• Interior and Exterior Cleaning: A thorough wash, wax, and interior detailing can make your car look more appealing to potential buyers.
• Repair Minor Issues: Fix minor issues like scratches, dents, or broken lights. These small repairs can significantly increase your car's value.

Gather Necessary Documents

• Service History: Collect all service and repair records. A well-documented service history reassures buyers that the car has been well-maintained.
• Registration Papers: Ensure your car’s registration is current. You’ll need to transfer the registration to the new owner upon sale.
• Vehicle History Report: Obtain a Vehicle History Report with an official government PPSR certificate to show that there are no outstanding debts on the car and that it is not written off or stolen. MotorRegistry's reports are perfect for this.'

Step 2: Determine the Right Price

Setting the right price is crucial for attracting buyers and getting a fair deal.

Research Market Value

• Online Listings: Check websites like Carsales, Autotrader, Gumtree, and Facebook Marketplace to see what similar cars are selling for.
• Professional Appraisal: Consider getting a professional appraisal to get an accurate market value of your car.

Set a Competitive Price

• Be Realistic: Price your car competitively based on its condition, mileage, and market demand.
• Leave Room for Negotiation: Set your asking price slightly higher than your minimum acceptable price to allow for negotiation.

Step 3: Advertise Effectively

An effective advertisement can attract more potential buyers and speed up the sale.

Create a Compelling Ad

• High-Quality Photos: Take clear, well-lit photos of your car from multiple angles, including the interior and engine bay.
• Detailed Description: Write a detailed description highlighting key features, service history, and any recent maintenance or upgrades.

Choose the Right Platforms

• Online Marketplaces: List your car on popular online marketplaces like Carsales, Autotrader, Gumtree, and Facebook Marketplace.
• Social Media: Use social media platforms to reach a broader audience. Ask friends and family to share your listing.

Step 4: Screen Potential Buyers

Protect yourself by screening potential buyers carefully.

Communicate Safely

• Use a Separate Email or Phone Number: Consider using a separate email address or phone number for inquiries to protect your privacy.
• Be Cautious with Personal Information: Never share personal information like your home address until you’re certain the buyer is genuine.

Arrange Safe Meetings

• Meet in Public Places: Arrange to meet potential buyers in a public place, preferably during daylight hours.
• Bring a Friend: If possible, bring a friend or family member with you to the meeting.
• Test Drive: Ensure you have identification of the buyer (e.g. take a photo of their driver's licence with your phone) before allowing them to leave in your car. You may choose to ride with them on the test drive, or ask them to leave collateral behind (e.g. their own car).

Step 5: Negotiate and Close the Deal

Negotiating and closing the deal requires attention to detail and legal compliance.

Negotiation Tips

• Be Prepared: Know your car’s value and be prepared to justify your asking price.
• Stay Calm: Stay calm and professional during negotiations. Be willing to walk away if the offer is too low.

Complete the Paperwork

• Bill of Sale: Draft a bill of sale that includes the car’s details, sale price, and both parties’ signatures. You can download our free template here. Tip: Print and complete two copies - one for the seller and one for the buyer.
• Transfer of Registration: Complete the necessary forms to transfer the car’s registration to the new owner. Check with your local transport authority for specific requirements.
• Receipt: Provide a receipt for the payment received.

Step 6: Protect Yourself

Ensure that all legal aspects of the sale are covered.

Clear Outstanding Debts

• PPSR Check (formerly REVS Check): Ensure there are no outstanding loans or debts on the car before selling. A MotorRegistry vehicle history report including PPSR certificate will provide this information.

Handle Payments Safely

• Secure Payment Methods: Accept payment via bank transfer or bank cheque. Avoid accepting large amounts of cash.
• Verify Payment: Ensure the payment has cleared before handing over the keys and documents.

Remove All Personal Items From the Vehicle

• Documents and Cards: Ensure there are no items such as old mail, payment or fuel cards, licences or loyalty cards left in the vehicle.
• Toll Tags: Remove any toll tags and ensure the vehicle is removed from your toll account using the toll company website or app.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to sell your used car confidently and securely. Happy selling!

Unwittingly purchasing a stolen motor vehicle can lead to significant costs. Fortunately, there are ways to mitigate this risk. Before making a purchase, obtaining a Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) report is crucial. This report helps ensure that the vehicle of interest has not been reported as stolen or written off, and there are no outstanding financial obligations associated with it.

The PPSR is a valuable tool that informs you about the status of a vehicle, specifically whether it has been written off or reported as stolen. In Australia, fraudulent practices such as vehicle rebirthing contribute to an annual cost ranging from $77 million to $256 million 1, as reported by the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council. Unfortunately, sellers may not always disclose necessary information for an informed decision.

To avoid relying solely on a seller's assurance, the Written-Off Vehicle Register (WOVR), included in a PPSR report, provides essential information. The WOVR distinguishes between two categories of written-off vehicles: repairable write-offs and statutory write-offs. Repairable write-offs, though deemed too expensive to repair, can be re-registered for road use if they pass safety and identity checks. In contrast, statutory write-offs are unfit for the road due to severe damage.

If you acquire a repairable write-off, resale is possible, albeit at lower prices. The vehicle must pass a mechanical check and a Vehicle Identity Validation (VIV) inspection, certifying its previous damage status and confirming it is not a rebirthed stolen vehicle. Specific restrictions apply to fixing, selling, or re-registering repairable write-offs, necessitating verification with relevant authorities.

The WOVR is integral to preventing the practice of rebirthing vehicles. It records information about written-off vehicles under 16 years old, including motor vehicles, trailers, motorcycles, and caravans. A PPSR search certificate provides information on the vehicle's encumbrance, theft status, or write-off history, offering a clear overview for prospective buyers. In the event of acquiring a repairable write-off, a written-off vehicle inspection is mandatory for registration. Auction houses and vehicle dealers must notify buyers of the vehicle's status, with proper labelling for statutory or repairable write-offs. Delays in WOVR listings may occur, requiring a Vehicle Identity Validation (VIV) certificate for roadworthiness confirmation.

To avoid purchasing a previously written-off vehicle, checking the PPSR for WOVR listings using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is recommended. The PPSR report, sourced from the National Exchange of Vehicle and Driver Information System (NEVDIS), provides details on financial interests, written-off status, and theft records. Taking a few minutes for a PPSR search is a worthwhile investment to ensure a trouble-free ownership experience with any vehicle purchase.

No one wants to end up with a lemon when buying a used car, and yet Australia faces challenges in the quality of some available vehicles.

An analysis of 154,035 car history reports revealed that a substantial 22.2% of vehicles had issues. With over a million Australians considering buying a second-hand car in the next 12 months, the situation raises concerns. The positive aspect is that these undesirable purchases could have been easily avoided through a PPSR (REVS Check) report.

However, what if you've already acquired a car that falls short of expectations? What legal rights do you have?

When it comes to purchasing a lemon at an auction, Australian consumer law holds manufacturers, dealerships, and auction houses accountable. They are obligated to provide automatic guarantees on the goods, including used or new cars, that you purchase from them. Additionally, a statutory warranty is offered to uphold the quality of the car and provide recourse if it fails to meet standards.

Sellers are prohibited from misleading buyers about the car's price, make, quality, or performance. They are responsible for repairing, replacing, or refunding a product that is not sold in good faith. However, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) specifies that certain conditions must be met. Claims cannot be made if the buyer has simply changed their mind after the purchase, damaged the car, or found a better deal. The seller also has discretion in situations where the buyer bought the car despite being informed that it wouldn't meet their needs.

For more specific information about consumer rights in your state or territory, the ACCC website is a valuable resource. If purchasing from a private seller, some consumer protections provided by law are waived. There is no entitlement to a cooling-off period, and the car lacks a statutory warranty. Unlike dealers, manufacturers, or auction houses, private sellers are not obliged to provide a certificate from the Personal Properties Securities Register.

Regardless of your chosen method to buy a used car, conducting a PPSR search can help you steer clear of potential pitfalls, ensuring an informed decision in the purchasing process.

This is a question frequently posed by non-residents living in Australia. In brief, the answer is yes, but the process can be challenging. It's essential to be aware that as a non-resident, you might face a higher interest rate due to the perceived risk associated with your profile.

Obtaining Australian citizenship can significantly simplify this process. It's advisable to apply for Australian citizenship before considering purchasing a car. The application involves a test assessing your understanding of Australian laws and proficiency in the English language. To prepare for the test, you can practice the Australian Citizenship Test for free.

Once you feel confident with a multitude of questions, you can take the official citizenship test, which consists of 20 multiple-choice questions selected from a pool of 200. The test duration is 45 minutes.

If you're contemplating applying for a car loan as a non-resident, addressing certain concerns can make the situation more manageable.

As a non-resident, your situation carries more risk than that of permanent residents, considering the uncertainty of your location in the next two years. Additionally, having a temporary work visa with an expiry date can impact the approval of your car loan, as temporary visas generally entail higher risks compared to permanent visas.

Providing evidence of a stable job in Australia for the entire loan term can enhance your chances of securing a better interest rate. Presenting payslips reflecting your income in Australia is beneficial, demonstrating that you are fully utilizing the work privileges of your visa.

A consistent income is advantageous, and disclosing your complete income while providing proof of timely bill payments gives lenders a clearer picture of your financial situation.

Initiating the process by consulting with a financial professional to determine loan eligibility is a prudent first step. Conversations with your employer or any sponsor vouching for your character can provide insights into your application's impact on your employment. It's crucial to ensure that the loan term allows sufficient time for repayment before the visa expiry.

Non-residents, including international students, can secure car loans in Australia with a reliable income and sponsor. However, temporary visas pose higher risk levels, potentially leading to increased interest rates or shorter loan terms.

While obtaining a car loan as a non-resident in Australia may not always be straightforward, having the right elements in place and being prepared to invest effort can significantly ease the process. We trust that this article has provided the information you need to make an informed decision in your particular situation.