Share V5 ref number when selling car?

[jazzpill]

I have a potential buyer interested for my M3, but they are asking for a full copy of the V5 (including the reference number) to verify the car does belong to me.

The DVLA website allows change of owner with this reference number, and suggests never sharing it. However the buyer is a reasonable authentic looking dealer and say they need it.

My gut says not to share (and lose the buyer) but I’m not sure if I’m being overly cautious.

Looking online some are saying never to share, some are saying it’s totally safe.

Thoughts?

Thanks

 

[impingu1984]

The DVLA states they check the V5C when they see the vehicle...

Check a used vehicle you’re buying

Check registration, MOT, tax, vehicle identification number and other details to help make sure a used car is not stolen or unsafe

www.gov.uk

They should only need the Reg number, make model and MOT test number (if it's had one) to do any checks before seeing it..

So I'd say don't send over a copy of your v5c until they are looking at the vehicle in person

 

[muster39]

I have a potential buyer interested for my M3, but they are asking for a full copy of the V5 (including the reference number) to verify the car does belong to me.

The DVLA website allows change of owner with this reference number, and suggests never sharing it. However the buyer is a reasonable authentic looking dealer and say they need it.

My gut says not to share (and lose the buyer) but I’m not sure if I’m being overly cautious.

Looking online some are saying never to share, some are saying it’s totally safe.

Thoughts?

Thanks

The V5C only shows the registered keeper who is not necessarily the owner. The V5 certificate specifically states ‘THIS DOCUMENT IS NOT PROOF OF OWNERSHIP’. So I would definitely not give a copy of the V5C because it doesn’t actually provide the information that the potential buyer is looking for. If you have a receipt from when you bought the car this would be the document to show?

 

[speedyranger74]

Don't share the V5C ref. Number!

 

[Mr H]

DVLA V5 possible fraud, advise required - Page 1 - General Gassing - PistonHeads UK

 

[NewbieT]

Let them do a HPI check if they’re concerned. They can see the V5 on the day IMO.

 

[UrbanSplash]

No reason for them to see the V5 until sold. If the sale falls through due to your reluctance, so be it.

 

[Rooster6655]

I have a potential buyer interested for my M3, but they are asking for a full copy of the V5 (including the reference number) to verify the car does belong to me.

The DVLA website allows change of owner with this reference number, and suggests never sharing it. However the buyer is a reasonable authentic looking dealer and say they need it.

My gut says not to share (and lose the buyer) but I’m not sure if I’m being overly cautious.

Looking online some are saying never to share, some are saying it’s totally safe.

Thoughts?

Thanks

A successful scammer would come off as authentic too, they are either buying it or they aren't, no need to mess around with strange requests that could put yourself at risk

 

[jazzpill]

Thanks for the replies everyone

 

[Cardo]

Seller beware. Do not share the V5 reference. Next you know they back out of the deal knowing your address. Next they register the car in their name, then email Tesla telling them they’ve bought the car using the new V5 as proof, who transfer it to their account. Day or two later, car disappears…