Buying a used car in Karachi can be a smart financial decision — but only if you know what you’re getting into. While the city offers a wide variety of second-hand vehicles, not all sellers disclose the full history of the car. That’s why checking a vehicle’s history before buying is crucial to avoid hidden issues like accidental damage, mileage tampering, unpaid taxes, or even stolen vehicles. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to check car history in Karachi so you can make an informed, safe, and legal purchase.
1. Verify Vehicle Registration and Ownership
Before anything else, ensure that the car is legally registered and the seller is the rightful owner.
How to check:
- Visit the official Excise & Taxation Department website for your province (e.g., Sindh Excise Website)
- Enter the car’s registration number to view:
- Owner’s name
- Make and model
- Engine number
- Tax payment status
- Registration year
This helps you confirm if the seller matches the registered owner and whether the car’s documentation is up to date.
2. Use Online Vehicle Verification Tools
In Karachi and other cities of Pakistan, several provinces now offer SMS-based or online vehicle verification services.
Sindh Vehicle Verification via SMS:
- Type: REG <space> Car Number
- Send to: 8521
- You’ll receive ownership and registration details instantly
3. Cross-Check Engine and Chassis Numbers
Before finalizing the deal:
- Match the engine number and chassis number on the vehicle with those on the registration book (RC), invoice, and computerized documents (if available).
- Physically inspect the stamped numbers on the car body to rule out tampering or replacement.
If numbers don’t match, walk away — this could signal a stolen or rebuilt vehicle.
4. Inspect Token Tax and Vehicle Dues
Token tax is mandatory in Karachi and other regions. Unpaid dues can become your liability if you purchase the car without clearing them.
How to check:
- Visit the Sindh Excise website
- Input the vehicle number and check:
- Token tax payment history
- Any outstanding amounts
- Life-time token (if applicable)
5. Check for Police or Theft Records
You can visit your local police station with the car’s chassis and engine number to verify that the vehicle is not reported as stolen. This is especially important for imported or used cars with unclear histories.
Some regions also allow you to email or call the Anti-Car Lifting Cell (ACLC) in Karachi for verification.
6. Check CPLC Clearance
For cars in Karachi, always ask for a CPLC (Citizen-Police Liaison Committee) clearance certificate. It confirms that the vehicle is not involved in any criminal case or theft report.
You can obtain this by:
- Visiting a CPLC office (e.g., at Civic Center Karachi)
- Bringing car documents and CNIC copy
- Getting verification done in person
Final Thoughts
Buying a used car without checking its history can result in serious legal or financial issues. By verifying registration, ownership, tax status, police records, and vehicle condition, you reduce your risks significantly. Always be cautious, ask the right questions, and avoid deals that seem too good to be true. With the right steps, buying a used car in Karachi can be safe, transparent, and rewarding.
