When you buy a second-hand vehicle privately there is a risk that there could be money owing on it. As the new owner you could become liable for this debt.

The Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) can show if vehicle is recorded as being "encumbered".  This means there could be money owing on the vehicle or the seller may not own the vehicle outright. It is advisable to do a PPSR check.

A car dealer must guarantee title. 

A PPSR check will also tell you if the vehicle has been listed on the 'Written Off Vehicle Register'.

08. PPSR or DOT check vignette.mp4 from Consumer Protection WA on Vimeo.