A Singapore vehicle log card or official vehicle-registration record contains essential facts that an advertisement may not show. Reading it carefully helps a buyer confirm the car’s identity, age and COE position before discussing price.
Start with the vehicle identity
Check the registration number, make, exact model and vehicle type. Marketing names can be shortened or written differently, so compare the listing with the official description. Confirm the primary colour and seating capacity where relevant.
Match the engine and chassis numbers
The engine and chassis numbers are key identifiers. They should match the markings on the physical vehicle and other supporting records. The markings must be clear and show no sign of tampering. If there is any doubt, arrange a professional evaluation at an authorised inspection centre or the Automobile Association of Singapore.
Manufacturing year is not registration date
The manufacturing year describes when the car was produced. The original or first registration date starts important Singapore timelines, including the first ten-year COE cycle and potential PARF eligibility. Two cars built in the same year may therefore have different expiry dates and remaining values.
Read the COE information
- COE category
- COE number
- Quota Premium paid
- COE expiry date
- Whether the COE has previously been renewed
For a car near expiry, compare the exact date with the latest applicable PQP. Do not assume that the advertised body price includes renewal.
Understand OMV, ARF and rebate fields
Open Market Value is the assessed import value used in calculating certain registration costs. Additional Registration Fee is a tax paid at registration based on OMV. These figures are not the same as today’s market price.
PARF and COE rebate information may indicate potential value on eligible deregistration, but the exact amount depends on the intended deregistration date and official eligibility. Use LTA’s enquiry service rather than relying on an old screenshot.
Look for ownership and use clues
The number of transfers, vehicle scheme and recorded use can add context, but none proves condition by itself. A car with several owners may still be well maintained, while a low-transfer car can have deferred repairs. Treat the record as the start of due diligence, not a substitute for inspection.
Protect personal information
Vehicle records can contain owner particulars, access codes or identifiers. Sellers should redact information that buyers do not need. Buyers should not share such records publicly or reuse access information.
LTA’s used-vehicle transfer guidance also recommends physically checking vehicle details against official records.
FATCAR can provide a clear vehicle summary and actual condition information for available stock. Always verify official records before final payment.