Ohio’s Stolen Vehicle Trends and How to Protect Yourself

In recent years, vehicle thefts have risen in Ohio, so residents need to take steps to protect themselves. By understanding the patterns and using tools like an Ohio license plate lookup service, people can avoid buying stolen vehicles and protect their investments.

Stolen Vehicle Statistics in Ohio

Ohio is one of the top states in the U.S. for car theft. The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reports that 31,647 vehicles were stolen in Ohio last year, making it just behind New York in the number of stolen cars. (Source: WDTN)

The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reports that 34% of recovered stolen vehicles are returned on the same day as the theft, and 45% are recovered within two days. (Source: NICB)

National Top 10 Vehicle Makes/Models Stolen 2023

Source: Vehicle Thefts Surge Nationwide in 2023 (NICB)

How an Ohio License Plate Lookup Helps Prevent Fraud

If you’re buying a vehicle in Ohio, an Ohio license plate number lookup is a useful tool. It lets you check a vehicle’s history using its license plate number. Here’s how it works:

• Spot Stolen Cars: An Ohio license plate lookup can show if the car is flagged stolen. 
• Expose Scams: Scammers might alter documents in private sales. Checking the plate lets you confirm crucial vehicle details.
• Check the Title: Learn if the car has a clean, salvage, rebuilt, or junked title, avoiding surprises later.
• Manufacturer Info: Get basic details like the car’s make, model, year, and where it was made to verify authenticity.
• Car Specs: Confirm features like engine size, drivetrain, fuel type, and trim level match what’s advertised.
• Warranty Info: See if the car is still under the manufacturer’s warranty or if extended options are available.
• Insurance History: Find out about previous insurance claims, which could point to accidents or other issues.
• Sales History: See the number of total owners, sales dates, and locations for a clearer picture of the car’s past.
• Fair Price: Check the car’s current market value to ensure you’re not overpaying.
• Running Costs: Estimate ongoing costs like maintenance, fuel, and potential repairs to plan your budget.
• Recalls & Defects: Identify any recalls or known issues for the car to address safety concerns.
• Theft Reports: Confirm the car hasn’t been involved in theft or recovery incidents.
• Outstanding Liens: Avoid financial trouble by checking for unpaid loans tied to the car.
• Safety Ratings: Review crash-test results and safety ratings (by NHTSA and IIHS)  to judge the car’s reliability in protecting passengers.

Tips for Verifying Authenticity in Private Sales

Buying a car from a private seller can save you money, but it also has risks. Here are some tips to protect yourself:

1. Check the Vehicle’s History

Use an Ohio license plate lookup or VIN check to learn about a car’s history. As stated, these tools can show important details like previous sales, accidents, and mileage. Checking the car’s history helps confirm it’s legitimate and makes the buying process easier.

2. Ask for Documents

Make sure you get the car’s title, a bill of sale, and the seller’s ID. The name on the title should match the seller’s ID. Never buy a car without proof of ownership. Check that the title is clean, meaning no unpaid loans or salvage claims. Also, compare the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the title with the one on the car to avoid fraud. Confirm the seller has the right to sell the car and that there are no unpaid fines or fees. If you can, get a report from a trusted source like NMVTIS to check the car’s history and make sure it hasn’t been in major accidents or had its mileage altered.

3. Meet in a Public Place

Pick a safe, well-lit spot to meet the seller. Some Ohio police stations offer “safe zones” where you can make transactions in a monitored, secure area. These zones are usually at police stations or public buildings, giving you extra peace of mind. Always let a friend or family member know the meeting details, including the time and place, for added safety.

4. Get a Mechanic’s Inspection

Get a reliable mechanic to check the car for any hidden problems. While this won’t tell you if the car is stolen, it can spot issues that might not be obvious. A full inspection can find expensive problems, like engine or transmission issues, that you might miss. This helps make sure the car is safe to drive and won’t need costly repairs soon.

5. Avoid Paying in Cash

Use a payment method that can be tracked, like a cashier’s check or bank transfer, so you have a record of the transaction. This creates a paper trail that can help protect you if there are any problems or fraud. It also allows both parties to confirm the exchange, adding security and trust to the process.

• Good Alternatives to Cash Payment

  • Financing through a Bank or Credit Union
  • Dealer Financing
  • Leasing
  • Personal Loan
  • Home Equity Loan or Line of Credit (HELOC)
  • Credit Card
  • Peer-to-Peer Lending
  • Cryptocurrency
  • Gift Cards
  • Trade-In Vehicle

6. Be Wary of Low Prices

If the price seems too low, it might be a red flag. Look up prices for similar cars to see if it makes sense. A much lower price could mean the car has hidden problems like past accidents, big repairs, or even fraud. Make sure the seller gives you a full report and allows inspections to check the car’s condition before you buy.

7. Take a Test Drive

Drive the car on different types of roads and at various speeds. This helps you notice any strange noises, shakes, or handling problems. Pay attention to how it accelerates, brakes, and turns, as these can show any hidden issues. Also, adjust the seats and controls to check if the car is comfortable and fits your driving style.

• Ideal Places for Test Drive

  • City Streets (Urban Driving)
  • Highway (Freeway) Driving
  • Winding Roads (Twisty, Hilly Terrain)
  • Rural Roads (Unpaved or Gravel Roads)
  • Steep Inclines or Declines
  • Parking Lots (Tight Spaces)
  • Mountain Roads (Inclined, Slippery Conditions)
  • Wet Roads (Rainy or Wet Conditions)
  • Smooth Highways (Paved, Straight Roads)
  • Snowy Terrain (For AWD or 4WD vehicles)

7. Trust Your Gut

If something doesn’t feel right, like a seller who’s in a hurry or gives unclear answers, it’s okay to walk away. Honest sellers are patient and willing to answer your questions clearly. They’ll also usually provide documents like maintenance records or a vehicle history report to show they’re trustworthy and help you feel confident in your decision.

Avoid Buying Stolen Cars with Our Ohio License Plate Lookup Tool

Vehicle theft is a big concern in Ohio, but with the right steps, buyers can avoid being scammed. Before buying a car, use a license plate lookup to check if it’s stolen, inspect the car carefully, and follow safe practices when buying privately. Stay alert and use available tools to make sure your purchase is safe. A license plate lookup can help you avoid problems and make smart decisions. Don’t let fraud or dishonest sellers affect your investment.

Avoid scams and dishonest sellers to protect your investment. Search for stolen vehicle details using a license plate lookup!