When you set out to buy a used car, there’s always the risk that you’ll wind up with a car that you don’t want, or a car that has more problems that it initially seems. One of the things you don’t usually think about, however, is the possibility of buying a stolen car. Yet, every year, unsuspecting customers wind up purchasing stolen vehicles, which then may be seized by the authorities, leaving you high and dry.

There are, however, some ways to make sure that the used car you’re buying isn’t stolen:

• Verify the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN Number) that is located on the door jamb on the driver’s door, the one on the dash, and the one under the hood. Make sure they match one another and they match the VIN on the paperwork.
• Consider purchasing a vehicle history report. This will not only tell you if the vehicle was reported missing, but it will tell you if the vehicle has a history of flooding, accidents or other damage.
• Make sure the name on the title matches the seller’s name or the dealer’s name.
• Choose only a quality used car dealer. Your dealer should be trustworthy and be able to address any questions you might have about the history of the vehicle, as well as be able to assure you the vehicle isn’t stolen.