in what it claims is an industry-leading initiative, British Car Auctions is to check the history of every car offered for sale using Experian Car Data Check . The exclusive five-year contract also sees further post-sale checks for sold cars with the Nottingham-based global information solutions company.

BCA customer affairs director Tom Madden said: 'Our intention to check every car before sale is another first for the industry and further improves the service to our customers. Buyers can be assured of the quality of vehicles sold and this peace of mind is an integral part of an efficient buying process. Sellers can also be sure that their vehicles are properly and fairly represented at BCA, ensuring that they achieve true market value at all times.'

The checks will highlight data such as colour changes, the number of previous keepers, import/export and scrapped markers, plus the year of manufacture - all considered to be crucial elements in determining the true value of a vehicle and in combating any potential fraud.