EXPERIAN has signed up the first major customer for its new Car Data Check vehicle identification system. Dealer group Pendragon is to start using the system, which is the first of its kind to use Vehicle Identification Numbers.

Formerly known as CCN Group, Experian developed Car Data Check to provide motor dealers and car auction groups with the confidence that any vehicle they are buying or selling has not been written off or stolen, and is free from any outstanding finance agreement.

Pendragon chief executive Trevor Finn said: 'Our decision to go with Car Data Check was based on the quality of data and the fact that a VIN-based system offered our customers added protection against motor vehicle fraud.'