CAR CRIME comes in all shapes and sizes and is not just about the thieves who take cars - but also about the individuals who make profits from selling stolen vehicles.

And police say that changing the identity of a car before selling it on, otherwise known as 'ringing' is at a high level throughout the whole of the country.

But the culprits can be made to consider their actions if potential buyers remember to check out what they are spending their hard-earned cash on.

The Stolen Vehicle Squad in Trafford are solely concerned with the theft of cars and what happens to them once they are taken.

A spokesman for the unit told SAM: "Checking a car thoroughly before you buy it will save you thousands of pounds and lots of heartache and people should always remember to compare the chassis and engine numbers with the vehicle documentation."

He added: "If you aren't shown any papers or are met by the seller anywhere other than their own home and there are signs of tampering to any numbers or parts of the vehicle - don't buy it and let us know on the Crimestoppers 0800 555111 number."

Before a car works its way into the hands of a seller, it can be used for joyriding or involved in other crimes and that is where the unmarked vehicle unit come in.

They concentrate on working with the Stolen Vehicle Squad and are often having to pursue crooks who are driving stolen vehicles.

A unit member said: "With the vast majority of vehicle thieves being aged under 20, the '25-Scheme' is an excellent indicator for us.

"If we see the badges in the car windows and it is obvious that a young person is driving, it is definitely worth a stop-check."

Both teams are part of the Stretford based traffic unit who deal with all types of car crime including those that take place when vehicles break down.

The unit bases its advice around the safety of motorists and says that a well serviced car that is regularly checked will give the driver more confidence and ensure that they are not stranded during a breakdown.

"Oil and water levels and tyres should be checked regularly and if a car is maintained well a motorist will be rewarded with miles of safe driving," say police.

Ray Goodier, who is a member of the South Trafford Crime Prevention Panel, added: "I run a personal safety training company and know that defensive driving can help to avoid any potential situations.

"Drivers should be aware of their surroundings and if you keep your distance behind other vehicles not only can you stop more safely but you can drive around the car if it pulls up sharply."

Community safety officer at Altrincham police, PC Tony Crompton said: "It is all about planning and listening to the various departments offering their advice.

"With a little bit of good sense we can stop car thieves taking our cars, stop sellers off-loading deathtraps and avoid breakdown and road rage incidents - together we can crack it!

PEOPLE thinking of buying a car can get free membership of the 25-scheme from the dealer they buy from.

Since the success of the scheme, all local dealerships in Trafford have bought packs from the police in a bid to help new car buyers protect their vehicle.

Ask your local dealer when you are in the showroom for more details or contact PC Tony Crompton at Altrincham police on 856-7546.

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