Experian has joined forces with the RAC to help make the process of purchasing a used car easier for dealers and buyers.

The number of used cars sold in the UK increased by 3.4% in the year to September 2014 and now accounts for three quarters of all the cars bought in the UK, according to data from Experian.

With one in three used cars having a hidden history, there is a need for caution before buying a car.

The new RAC Car Passport will help car buyers check whether a vehicle has been stolen, written off, or has outstanding finance, thanks to vehicle data check details provided by Experian.

The service costs £14.99 for buyers and also provides a personal valuation to check the seller is charging a fair price, information on common problems with the car model’s reliability and top causes of MOT failure.

People selling a vehicle privately can get a report for £24.99 which also includes a voucher for three months’ roadside and recovery, an example of what an effective advert should contain and a receipt template.

Managing director of Experian’s automotive business Keith Ambrose said: “Buying a car is the second biggest purchase many people will make in their lifetime. One in three used vehicles have something on their record which could make a buyer think twice, so it makes sense to have all relevant information to hand when making a decision.

“You wouldn’t buy a house without getting it surveyed - carrying out data checks safeguards your choice when buying a car in a similar way.”

Managing director of RAC Data Services Robert Diamond said: “We have created an affordable report which gives prospective buyers access to an unparalleled level of information about the car they are interested in to help them decide whether or not to buy.”