Tools / Lien search
Check for liens before you buy
If the seller still owes money on the vehicle, the lender may be able to take it back, even after you've paid. A lien search takes a few minutes and costs far less than that risk.
How to search for liens
- Search BC's Personal Property RegistryLiens on vehicles in BC are registered in the Personal Property Registry (PPR), run by BC Registries. Search by serial number using the VIN. There's a small fee, and results come back right away.
- Look for any registration on the VINIf the search shows a security agreement or lien, ask the seller to pay it off and give you written proof that it's discharged before you buy.
- Get a vehicle history reportICBC offers a vehicle claims history report for BC vehicles, which shows past accident claims. It's useful evidence for a lower appraisal too.
- From another province?Search that province's registry as well, since an out-of-province lien won't show up in BC's.
Damage, rust or accident history in the report? It may mean the vehicle is worth less than the Black Book value, and a FIN 320 appraisal could lower your PST.
Lien questions
What is a lien on a vehicle?
A lien (or security interest) is a lender's legal claim on a vehicle used as security for a loan. It stays with the vehicle, not the owner, so it can pass to you when you buy.
Is a lien search required to register the vehicle?
No. ICBC doesn't require one, which is exactly why buyers should do it themselves before paying.
The search found a lien. What now?
Don't hand over money yet. Ask the seller to pay off the loan and get a discharge from the lender, or pay the lender directly at the sale and get a written payout statement. If in doubt, ask a lawyer.
Does this site search the registry for me?
No. The VIN check here makes sure the VIN is valid and shows what vehicle it belongs to. The lien search itself is done on the BC Registries website.