What is a PPSR car history check?

If you're buying a used car, a PPSR car history check can help you learn more about the vehicle before you commit. A vehicle history report gives you access to important information about a car's past and can make the buying process easier and more transparent.

Every carsales vehicle history report includes a Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) certificate. Depending on the information available, the report may also show:

A PPSR check forms a key part of a comprehensive vehicle history report, helping buyers better understand a vehicle's background before purchase.

View a sample PPSR report to understand what a vehicle search can include.

carsales works with the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) to provide vehicle history reports for Australian vehicles with a valid Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

To complete a VIN check, simply enter the vehicle's VIN and request a report. Your vehicle history report will typically be emailed to you within 15 minutes.

It's important to note that odometer information is not always available. Vehicle history reports rely on records from multiple sources and, while odometer data is available for many vehicles, it cannot be guaranteed for every VIN check.

Vehicle history reports can only be obtained for vehicles built after 1989. PPSR and vehicle history reporting services do not provide information for vehicles built before that year.

While a vehicle history report can provide valuable information, it's also worth checking service records, reviewing logbooks and speaking directly with the seller before purchasing a used vehicle.

Common traps are when buying privately

A used vehicle's history is not always obvious from its condition alone. A car history check can help identify issues that may affect the vehicle's value, ownership status or suitability for purchase.

A carsales vehicle history report can help you:

Having access to this information can provide greater confidence when comparing vehicles and making a purchase decision.

Get a vehicle history report today

What is a PPSR car history check?

A PPSR car history check uses data from the Personal Property Securities Register to identify whether money is owed on a vehicle or if a security interest has been recorded against it. Through a carsales vehicle history report, a PPSR certificate is combined with other available vehicle information to provide a broader view of the car's history.

Is a PPSR check free?

A PPSR check is generally a paid service. Through carsales, you can purchase a vehicle history report that includes a PPSR certificate along with additional vehicle history information, where available.

Learn more about vehicle history reports

Does a PPSR check show accidents?

A PPSR check does not specifically show accident history. However, it may indicate whether a vehicle has been recorded as written off. Vehicle history reports may also contain other information about a vehicle's background, depending on available records.

How do I check a VIN number?

You can complete a VIN check by locating the vehicle's 17-character VIN and entering it into a vehicle history report service. The VIN is commonly found on registration papers, compliance labels or stamped onto the vehicle itself.

How can I check if a vehicle is registered and has any outstanding recalls?

Registration information may be available through a vehicle history report, depending on the vehicle and available records. For recall information, check directly with the vehicle manufacturer or the Australian Government's vehicle recall database before purchasing.