When buying a used car in Australia, it’s important to know as much about the car as possible before making a purchase. One way to protect yourself is by getting a PPSR report. This report gives you important details about the car’s financial and legal status. In this article, we’ll explain what a PPSR report is, why it’s useful, and how it helps you make smart decisions when buying a used car.

A PPSR report stands for Personal Property Securities Register report. This report gives information about whether the car has any outstanding debt or if it has been listed as stolen or written off. The PPSR is a government database that stores records about cars and other personal property in Australia. You can access the report online to make sure the car you want to buy is clear from any legal or financial trouble. Here are some of the key things a PPSR report can tell you:


Stolen Vehicle Status: This report section verifies if the vehicle has been reported as stolen in any jurisdiction. It provides critical information to ensure that the car you’re considering isn’t part of a theft case.

✓ Written-off Status: This checks if the vehicle has been declared a write-off, either as a result of an accident or another major issue. It helps buyers avoid purchasing cars that have been deemed irreparable or unsafe.

✓ Registration Detail: This section provides the vehicle’s registration information, including current status, state of registration, and expiry. It confirms the legality of the car on Australian roads.

Finance Owing: This report determines if there is any finance or loan attached to the vehicle. If there’s outstanding debt, the vehicle could be repossessed by the lender even after purchase.

Flood Damaged: This check reveals whether the car has sustained damage due to flooding, which could affect its mechanical and electrical systems. Flood damage can significantly reduce a vehicle’s reliability and lifespan.

✓ PPSR Certificate: The Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) Certificate provides official documentation confirming whether the vehicle has any financial encumbrance or security interests lodged against it. It’s an essential step for a clear purchase.

See sample report.

These details help you avoid buying a car that could cause problems in the future.