How to Do a REVS Check Before Buying a Car in Australia

Buying a used car in Australia can feel risky. Private sellers and even some dealers may claim that a car is in perfect condition, but there’s always the chance it has finance owing, was written-off, or even stolen. That’s why performing a REVS Check Australia is essential before you spend a single dollar. In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to do a REVS Check, explain what it reveals, and share tips to buy safely.

1. What is a REVS Check?

A REVS Check (Register of Encumbered Vehicles) is a report showing whether a car has money owing against it. If the previous owner still owes a loan on the vehicle, it will appear on the REVS register. Buying a car with outstanding finance can result in the lender repossessing it, leaving you out of pocket.

Key points about REVS Checks:

• Shows if a vehicle has finance owing
• May list written-off or stolen vehicles in some cases
• Available for all cars registered in Australia
• Can be done online in minutes

Doing a REVS Check protects you from hidden financial and legal risks when buying a car.

2. REVS Check vs PPSR Check

Many people confuse a REVS Check with a PPSR (Personal Property Security Register) Check. Here’s the difference:

Tip: It’s smart to do both checks before purchasing a used car.

3. When Should You Do a REVS Check?

Perform a REVS Check before taking final decision and paying for any car. Common situations include:

• Buying from a private seller
• Purchasing from a dealer
• Buying online (e.g., Gumtree, Carsales)
• Checking imported vehicles

Doing it early ensures you don’t waste money or take on unexpected debt.

4. How to Do a REVS Check in Australia (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Gather Vehicle Details

You’ll need either:

• The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) — preferred, unique identifier, cheaper
• The Registration Number — alternative, less reliable, bit expensive

Step 2: Choose a REVS Check Provider

You can complete a REVS Check online via:

• Government-approved portals
• Trusted services like VinVerify

Tip: Use a $2 REVS Check service for a quick, official report.

Step 3: Enter Vehicle Information

On the provider’s website, enter:

• VIN or Registration Number
• Email address to receive the report

Step 4: Review the REVS Report

The report usually includes:

• Whether finance is owing
• Vehicle registration status
• Written-off or stolen status (sometimes)

Step 5: Make an Informed Decision

If the report shows finance owing, don’t buy until it’s cleared. If it’s clear, proceed but consider also doing a VIN check for full verification.

5. Understanding a REVS Check Report

Here’s what you’ll typically see:

• Owing Finance: Indicates if the car is used as security for a loan
• Owner Details: Registered owner’s name (partially redacted for privacy)
• Rego Status: Current or cancelled registration
• Written-Off Status: Flags serious accidents in some cases

Even with a clear REVS Check, always cross-verify with a PPSR or VIN check to be fully protected.

6. REVS Check Costs

• Standard REVS Check: $2
• PPSR Check: $2–$5
• Bundle Packages (REVS + VIN + PPSR): $10–$15

Spending a few dollars upfront is far cheaper than taking on thousands in debt or buying a stolen vehicle.

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the REVS Check entirely
• Relying on seller claims without verification
• Using unofficial or unreliable services
• Ignoring VIN or PPSR checks
• Entering the VIN incorrectly — always double-check

8. Additional Tips for Buying a Used Car

• Ask for full service history
• Hire a mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection
• Check PPSR and VIN number for a complete history
• Research market price to avoid overpaying
• Meet sellers in safe, public locations

9. Benefits of running a REVS Check

• Avoid taking on hidden debts
• Prevent buying stolen or written-off cars
• Negotiate better prices with knowledge
• Gain confidence before purchase

Conducting a REVS Check is a small step that can save thousands in unexpected costs.

10. Where to Do a REVS Check Online

Trusted options for a proper Revs checking for Australians include:

• VinVerify.com.au – instant REVS Check
• Government PPSR portal – for full verification
• Major car history check providers – bundles including VIN, REVS, PPSR

Tip: Make it part of your buying checklist: REVS → PPSR → VIN.

11. Conclusion

A REVS Check Australia is essential before buying any used car. For just a few dollars, you can avoid finance traps, stolen vehicles, and written-off cars. Always pair it with a PPSR and VIN check, read the report carefully, and make an informed decision.

Don’t risk buying a car blindly — do a REVS Check first and buy with confidence.