Car-Pass, information about used vehicle

In order to put an end to mileage fraud, the legislator  implemented a system that certifies the mileage of used vehicles: the Car-Pass.

Since 2004, any private individual or professional wishing to sell a used vehicle has been obliged to supply the private buyer with a Car-Pass. The only exception to this rule is when a private individual sells his car to a professional in the automotive sector.

The Act of 28 November 2018 amended the Act of 11 June 2004 on the provision of information when selling second-hand vehicles. It imposes new obligations, which have been in force since 1 March 2019.

When offering an already registered vehicle for sale, the professional seller must show the Car-Pass details in his advertisements and showroom that the non-profit association has at that time:

• the recorded mileage;
• where available, the vehicle's Euro standard;
• where available, the official CO₂ emissions and the test procedure used;
• any recall actions which led to no consequences for the vehicle concerned;
• the fact that the vehicle must undergo an inspection following an accident before it can go back on the road. 

Information stated on the Car-Pass

When the vehicle is sold to a private person, the seller (professional or private) must supply the Car-Pass. This document contains the vehicle's mileage history and the following details:

• the entire recorded mileage and the accompanying recording dates;
• where available, the Euro standard that the vehicle meets;
• where available, the official CO₂ emission figures and accompanying test procedures;
• any recall actions which led to no consequences for the vehicle concerned;
• the fact that the vehicle must undergo an inspection following an accident before it can go back on the road.

The Car-Pass also contains other information:

• the make and model of the vehicle;
• the vehicle's initial registration date and, where available and if this differs, the date of its initial registration in Belgium;
• the  Vehicle Identification Number (VIN);
• the date on which he document was drawn up;
• the Car-Pass' identification number, which can be used to verify the document's authenticity.

The seller must be able to provide proof of supply of the Car-Pass to the buyer, by the time the contract is concluded at the latest.

Advantages of the Car-Pass

Thanks to the Car-Pass system, mileage fraud in Belgium  virtually disappeared. For more information, please consult the non-profit association Car-Pass' annual report for 2017.

The Car-Pass gives the buyer a better idea of the value of the vehicle they want to buy.

When purchasing a used car from a mechanic or a private individual, the law stipulates that, if the buyer does not receive a Car-Pass, he can ask the court to terminate the sales contract. If the judge decides to cancel the contract, the purchase must be considered null and void and the purchase sum must be refunded to the buyer.

The Car-Pass system also increases transparency and credibility in the used vehicle sector.

Any questions?

Consult the Frequently Asked Questions