How to Check If You Have Purchased a Stolen Moped
by Rick Paulas
It's always a nerve-wracking process to purchase a used moped. Not only do you worry about making sure it runs correctly and doesn't need many mechanical repairs, but you also worry whether you have purchased stolen property. Luckily, as long as you have the vehicle identification number (VIN), you can run a check with the police to find out whether your moped was reported as stolen.
Step 1
Find the VIN on the moped. Each vehicle has a unique number which is used by police and other departments to track the vehicle's history. On a moped, the VIN is usually located on the steering column below the handlebars. If you cannot find it, contact the manufacturer.
Step 2
Take the VIN to your local police station. The police will be able to run a check on the VIN to find out if your moped has been reported as stolen. This check should take only a few minutes. If the moped has not been reported as stolen, it will not show up in the police records and you will be free to drive it away.
Step 3
Provide the police with a description and location of the seller if the moped has been reported as stolen. Police will impound the vehicle and return it to its owner, and you will have to answer police questions to help officers locate the person who sold the stolen moped. Depending on the investigation, you may or may not be compensated for the moped you purchased.
References
Things You'll Need
- VIN of moped
Warnings
- It is important to check whether the moped was stolen before you purchase it. If you don't and the moped has been reported stolen, you may not be compensated for its purchase price.
Writer Bio
Rick Paulas is a freelance writer based out of Los Angeles. He has been writing professionally since 2005. He has previously written for "McSweeney's," ESPN.com, "Vice Magazine" and "Radar Magazine," and has worked as an editor for "The Coming," "Duct Tape & Rouge," and "TSB Magazine." Paulas holds a Bachelor of Arts in telecommunications and advertising from Michigan State University.
