How to Check if a Car Engine is Stolen

Introduction

Buying a used car can be a great way to save money, but it also comes with some risks. One of the biggest risks is buying a car with a stolen engine. A stolen engine can be a major financial loss, and it can also be dangerous to drive a car with a stolen engine.

There are a few things you can do to check if a car engine is stolen. By following these steps, you can help protect yourself from buying a car with a stolen engine.

Check the Vehicle’s Identification Number (VIN)

The VIN is a unique identifier for every car. It is located on a metal plate on the dashboard, on the driver’s side door jamb, or on the engine block. The VIN can be used to track the car’s history, including whether it has been reported stolen.

To check the VIN, you can use the National Insurance Crime Bureau’s (NICB) VINCheck service. This service is free and easy to use. Simply enter the VIN into the VINCheck website and click “Check”. The NICB VINCheck service will tell you if the car has been reported stolen.

Check the Engine’s Serial Number

The engine’s serial number is another unique identifier for the engine. It is usually located on the engine block. The engine’s serial number can be used to track the engine’s history, including whether it has been reported stolen.

To check the engine’s serial number, you can use the NICB’s EngineCheck service. This service is also free and easy to use. Simply enter the engine’s serial number into the EngineCheck website and click “Check”. The NICB EngineCheck service will tell you if the engine has been reported stolen.

Inspect the Car

When you inspect the car, pay special attention to the engine. Look for any signs of tampering, such as missing or damaged bolts, wires, or hoses. You should also check the oil and coolant levels. If the oil or coolant levels are low, it could be a sign that the engine has been stolen.

Get a Vehicle History Report

A vehicle history report can provide you with a detailed history of the car, including whether it has been reported stolen. Vehicle history reports are available from a variety of sources, such as Carfax and AutoCheck. When you get a vehicle history report, be sure to check for any red flags, such as a salvage title or a history of accidents.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can help protect yourself from buying a car with a stolen engine. Remember, it is always better to be safe than sorry. If you have any doubts about whether a car has a stolen engine, it is best to walk away.