Buying a used car is an exciting yet tricky process. You want to get the best deal while ensuring you're not driving a vehicle with a troubled past. One of the most important checks you should perform is verifying the car's accident history. In the UAE, this can be easily done through the Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG) website. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about checking a car's accident history via EVG, the process, and other helpful tips.
Why You Need to Check the Accident History
Before committing to a used car purchase, checking its accident history is a must. A car involved in accidents may have hidden damages that can affect its safety, value, and longevity. The EVG platform allows you to access detailed reports on past accidents, ownership changes, theft reports, and more, ensuring you're making an informed decision.
What You Need: The Chassis Number (VIN)
The key to accessing a vehicle’s accident history through EVG is the chassis number, also known as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This 17-character unique code is assigned to each vehicle and is vital for tracking its history. You can find the chassis number on:
- Vehicle Registration Card (Mulkiya)
- Vehicle Insurance Certificate
- The car body (e.g., on the doorjamb, dashboard, or under the windshield)
How to Check EVG Accident History in UAE
The EVG website is one of the easiest and most reliable ways to check accident history for cars registered in most UAE emirates, except Dubai. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you check accident history online:
- Visit the EVG Official Website: Go to the official Emirates Vehicle Gate website at www.evg.ae.
- Navigate to the Accident History Section: On the homepage, look for the "Most Popular Services" section and click on Traffic Accidents Management.
- Enter the Chassis Number (VIN): In the Quick Search Box, enter the chassis number (VIN) of the car you're interested in.
- Click on Search: Hit the Search button to proceed. The website will then show you the car's accident history, including previous accidents, changes in ownership, and any theft-related reports (if applicable).
- Review the Report: Once the report appears, read through the details carefully to understand the car’s accident history and make an informed decision.
What Information Can You Find on EVG Accident History?
The EVG website provides a comprehensive report on the following:
- Accident History: Detailed information on any accidents the vehicle has been involved in.
- Ownership Changes: Records of any changes in ownership.
- Theft Reports: Information about whether the vehicle has been reported as stolen or involved in criminal activities.
- General Vehicle Data: Additional details about the car’s registration and other historical data.
Limitations of EVG Accident History Check
It’s important to note that EVG’s accident history service is available only for vehicles registered in Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah. If you're looking for accident history on a vehicle registered in Dubai, you will need to use the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Dubai website, which provides a different set of services.
How to Check Accident History for Vehicles Registered in Dubai
For cars registered in Dubai, you can access the vehicle accident history using the RTA Dubai Website. Here’s a quick guide:
- Visit the RTA Dubai Website: Go to www.rta.ae.
- Apply for Technical Vehicle Status Report: This service provides detailed vehicle reports, including accident history.
- Pay the Fee: A fee of AED 120 applies for this service.
Other Methods to Check Accident History in the UAE
Aside from EVG, there are a few other ways you can check a car's accident history in the UAE:
- MOI UAE Portal: The Ministry of Interior offers accident history checks online for cars registered in all Emirates (except Dubai). You can access this service by entering the chassis number on the MOI website.
- Abu Dhabi Police Website: If you're looking for accident history for a car registered in Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Police website provides this service for free.
- Vehicle Registration & Inspection Centers: If you prefer an offline method, you can visit a registration or testing center in the Emirate where the vehicle is registered. Make sure to bring the chassis number and your identification documents.
How to Find the Chassis Number (VIN)
If you don’t already have the chassis number, you can find it in a few places:
- Vehicle Registration Card (Mulkiya): The chassis number is listed in the registration details.
- Vehicle Insurance Certificate: This document also contains the VIN.
- On the Car: Look for the VIN on the doorjamb on the driver’s side, under the windshield, or on the car frame.
Is the EVG Accident History Check Free?
Yes, checking a vehicle’s accident history on the EVG website is free for cars registered outside Dubai (in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain). However, for Dubai-registered vehicles, you will need to pay a fee to get the report from the RTA Dubai website.
Before buying a used car, checking its accident history is a crucial step to ensure you're getting a vehicle that's safe and worth the price. The EVG website is a great tool to check accident history for cars registered in most UAE Emirates. It’s easy to use, free (for most Emirates), and gives you essential details that can save you from making costly mistakes. Remember, a well-informed decision is always the best one when it comes to buying a used car.
