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Glossary of Terms
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Car Ringing
A "Ringer" is a stolen vehicle that has had its identity changed by having its original VIN numbers replaced by another vehicles VIN number effectively changing the vehicles identity. The replacing VIN number usually comes from a car that has been written-off.
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is unique to that car and will never be seen on another vehicle exactly the same. The VIN number will be stamped on the car's floorplan and will be placed on a small metal plate which is under the bonnet.
When purchasing your "new" used car take a close look at the stamp and plates for signs of tampering. Very often "Ringers" are sold on by organised gangs who are very clever at covering their tracks to avoid detection and you will have no chance of getting your money back. If you buy a "Ringer" in legal terms that vehicle doesn’t belong to you and will be returned to its rightful owner.
Steps to take to avoid buying a "Ringer"
- Check for tampering around the VIN number panels
- Keep an eye out for cars that have just had a paint job. Look for overspray on the glass and trim.
- Make sure the V5 registration document is Genuine
To check whether a vehicle is a "Ringer" carry out an Vehicle Data Check.
Cut and Shut
A Cut and Shut is basically the remains of two cars that have been welded together to make a new vehicle. This, as you can imagine, can lead to disastrous consequences.
The parts that are welded together are likely to be from written off vehicles. So for example a car that has had a head on collision could see its rear end welded together with a car that has had a rear end impact but its front end is fine.
As criminals carry out the work themselves you can expect the work to be below standard. This is very dangerous and you can imagine travelling down the road at a decent speed and you car cuts in half. Not a laughing matter!
Steps you can take to avoid buying a "Cut and Shut":
- Keep your eye out for paint colours that don’t match properly.
- Check for overspray on the window glass.
- Examine the car carefully around the windscreen and the centre section where cars are normally welded together. If there is evidence of repair work be very cautious.
- Lastly carry out a Vehicle Inspection – usually provided by the RAC or the AA.
If you a vehicle that you believe is a Cut and Shut contact Trading Standards and the Police immediately.
Important Links
Trading Standards
Police Links
National Criminal Intelligence Service
Report a "dodgy" dealer
Other scams
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