The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has urged the government to introduce a publicly accessible online database that would allow used car buyers to check key vehicle history details for free.
In a new report, the CCPC argues that greater transparency in the second-hand car market would help prevent unsafe, clocked, or poorly repaired vehicles from being sold, improving both consumer protection and road safety.
Push for Greater Transparency
Currently, information such as a vehicle’s mileage, accident history, safety recalls, and import status is collected by the State but is either unavailable to the public or only accessible through paid private providers. The CCPC is calling for consumers to have direct, free access to this data before purchasing a car.
The report highlights that many other countries already offer public access to vehicle histories. Twenty EU member states, including Belgium, Estonia, and Poland, provide such services, while similar systems exist in the UK, New Zealand, and Australia.
“Consumers deserve better” – CCPC Chair
CCPC Chair Brian McHugh said the lack of access to essential car history data leaves buyers at a disadvantage.
“Thousands of consumers contact the CCPC helpline every year with issues related to second-hand cars,” he said.
“While the CCPC carries out investigations and enforcement actions, the most effective way to protect consumers is by equipping them with the information they need before making a purchase.”
McHugh said much of this data is already collected by the State and shared with traders and private car history providers but remains unavailable to the general public.
“Consumers deserve better. A car is one of the most significant purchases a person will make, and buyers need accurate information to ensure they are getting a safe and reliable vehicle,” he said.
Growing Consumer Complaints
The CCPC’s call for action follows a rise in complaints about second-hand cars. In 2024, the commission received 3,192 contacts from consumers reporting issues such as clocked vehicles, undisclosed crash damage, long repair delays, and recurring faults. Complaints also included misleading advertising and cases of mis-selling.
The CCPC is now urging the government to make car history data freely available to all buyers, bringing Ireland in line with best international practices.