We show you how quick and easy it is to get a car history check.

A car history check will tell you if a car has been stolen, scrapped, written off or if the seller still owes money to a finance company for the car.

Get a car history check now with Auto Trader Vehicle Check.

It will let you know if your potential purchase has been:

• Written off – a car which is damaged beyond repair (according to the insurer) will drop in value and may be dangerous to drive.

• Stolen – a vehicle check will tell you if a car has been registered as stolen, and prevent you from buying a car which could be legally tracked down and returned – leaving you with nothing.

• Sold with outstanding finance – this means the car is still legally owned by the finance lender. If you buy it and the seller is in debt, the finance company could repossess the car – and you’ll lose your money.

• Scrapped – sometimes poor quality vehicles will be sent for scrap but are fraudulently returned to the market. A history check will point this out, saving you time and money.

The check will also list the car’s colour, year of manufacture and number of previous owners.

All you need is your car’s registration number and vehicle identification number (VIN) to start a check.

Get a car history check now with Auto Trader Vehicle Check.

Read more reasons why you need a car history check.

How do you save money on your motoring? Share your tips on the Auto Trader Community Site.