The Ghostly Truth: “Zombie” Cars Still Haunt Ireland’s Used Market
Used car buyers in Ireland are being warned to exercise extreme caution as “zombie” cars continue to plague the used vehicle market.
These vehicles, often salvaged or written-off in the UK, are being imported into Ireland and sold without full disclosure of their past. According to Motorcheck, a leading car data expert, as many as 10% of used cars imported from the UK last year could be “zombies.” This alarming statistic adds to the nearly 40,000 used write-offs Motorcheck identified in 2022.
What Makes a Car a “Zombie”?
Write-offs are categorized into different groups. Category A and B vehicles are considered beyond repair and cannot be put back on the road. However, categories C and D, while repairable, often face difficulties due to high repair costs exceeding their pre-accident value or being deemed uneconomical to fix by insurers.
These “zombie cars” can legally be driven again, but their history can significantly impact their value, potentially decreasing it by as much as 30%. Motorcheck co-founder Shane Teskey stresses the importance of full transparency:
Unfortunately, the lack of a central database for categories C and D write-offs makes it difficult to track these vehicles accurately. This gap creates an environment where potential buyers may be unaware of a car’s true history, leading to costly surprises down the road.
Mileage Manipulation: Another Hidden Threat
Motorcheck also warns of a growing trend of mileage manipulation using devices known as mileage blockers or mileage freezers. These devices interfere with mileage tracking sensors in the car, potentially hiding its true mileage.
While it may not be illegal to change vehicle data, failing to disclose known mileage discrepancies is against the law. Teskey believes this practice will become increasingly common:
“It is getting big in the UK and it is just a matter of time before it gets big here too,”
Protecting Yourself: A Checklist for Used Car Buyers
Before buying any used car, it’s crucial to take steps to protect yourself:
* **Run a Car History Check:** Numerous companies like Motorcheck, Cartell, and MyVehicle offer comprehensive history reports. These reports delve into damage history, import records, road tax and NCT history, UK history, previous owners, mileage, and outstanding finance details.
* **Check the Seller’s Reputation:**
* For private sellers, arrange to meet at their residence.
* For dealerships, ensure they are members of SIMI (the Society of the Irish Motor Industry).
* **Diagnostic Check:** Get the vehicle inspected by a main dealer to uncover any potential underlying issues.
* **Warranty Details:** Carefully read the warranty terms and conditions. Be aware of third-party warranties, as they may not offer the same level of protection as those provided directly by the dealership.
* **Essential Items:** Verify the presence of a spare wheel, tire-changing equipment, and a spare key (which can cost hundreds of euros if needed). Negotiate with the seller to include a spare key if it’s missing.
By taking these precautions, you can empower yourself to make informed decisions and avoid falling prey to the growing problem of “zombie” cars on the Irish used car market.
**Don’t let the ghost of a hidden past haunt your next used car purchase. Get your car history checked today!**