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What is an HPI check?
A company in the UK called HPI (Hire Purchase Investigation) is the first to provide a vehicle history check service to used car buyers. A HPI check is detailed vehicle history report that helps you to build a picture of a car’s past. It can provide a report on any motor vehicle registered, including cars, vans, and motorcycles, from a variety of agencies such as police and insurance companies. A hpi check includes outstanding finance check, insurance write off, mileage discrepancy, stolen vehicle checks and much more. The report informs potential buyers of any hidden issues with a vehicle’s past that may not be apparent when they inspect the vehicle.
Why HPI Checks Are Important?
Buying a second-hand car is not without risks. Estimates vary, but around a half of used cars are believed to have a hidden issue, so it’s important to purchase a comprehensive car history report.
Outstanding Finance Check
If the previous owner has borrowed money to buy the car, it means it will still be owned by the finance firm.
Stolen Car Check
If you purchase a stolen vehicle, you run the risk of not only losing your car but also the money you spent on it.
Cloned Vehicle Check
Cloning, which is one way to hide that a car has been stolen, is one of today’s most pervasive illegalities. Cloning is similar in concept to identity theft.
Mileage Check
Mileage discrepancies is caused when the recorded mileage drops between MOT tests or if there is a mixture of odometer reading in miles and kilometres.
Written off Check
Insurers declare half a million cars unsafe to drive each year because they are involved in an accident. These cars cannot be repaired economically and are not safe to drive. Some of these will be repaired and put back on the road.
If the vehicle is being described as “HPI Clear”, the report should not highlight any issues. To begin with you could do a vehicle enquiry to check the MOT history. A used car is a great option because it offers a lot more savings than a new one. Also, the depreciation costs are much lower so many people choose to buy used cars. To stay protected you must carry out a comprehensive history check before purchasing a vehicle.