Why a Car History report is paramount for Uber drivers

Since Uber entered the Australian market in late 2012, the app's popularity has grown exponentially. There's no sign that the company's growth will slow down anytime soon with nearly 3.7 million Australians aged over 14 travelling by Uber in the last quarter of 2017 – up from just under 1 million less than two years ago according to research conducted by Roy Morgan. ¹

Uber is undoubtedly a great opportunity for any Australian. But to meet the company's driver standards, you'll need to show your vehicle is up to scratch - which is where a Car History report can go a long way. 

You can check the reported history of a potential Uber by purchasing a Car History report.

Factors to consider when purchasing an Uber-appropriate vehicle:

Comfort:

If you're operating in the taxi industry, comfort is paramount. You'll need to select a vehicle with ample leg room and make sure the seats are adjustable. Make sure to test drive any prospective cars for a minimum of one hour.

Maintenance:

Because your vehicle will regularly be driven, it's important to consider the cost of any repairs or maintenance. You'll want to invest in a model that you know you'll quickly and affordably be able to source parts.

Mechanics:

You'll need to make sure any vehicle you're interested in has no cosmetic damage. And there are a few main issues Uber suggests you thoroughly check before the official inspection:

• Tyres: Each tyre needs to have a tread depth of 1.5 mm or more.
• Lights: Make sure the headlights, park lights, signal indicator lights and brake lights are all working.
• Body damage: Make sure the body of the car is in stellar condition.
• Leaks: Check your car is not leaking oil or fuel.

History:

A Car History check can provide you with information about the reported history of a vehicle and can assist you in making an informed decision. Simply enter the VIN and you'll receive a detailed report in seconds. The report includes critical information such as if the vehicle has been written-off or stolen, or if the odometer has potentially been tampered with.

Safety:

Safety is one of the most important factors when it comes to choosing an Uber vehicle. Check the vehicle's Australian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) safety rating. This will provide you with a car's safety information.

A vehicle must achieve the highest standards in all tests and feature advanced safety assist technologies to gain a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.

Year:

It depends on which Uber vehicle option you decide on, but the majority of Uber vehicles need to be under 10 years old (2008 model or newer as of 2018) in order to meet Uber's vehicle requirements.

Uber vehicle options:

You'll need to decide what kind of Uber vehicle you would like to drive. There are different categories of vehicle - each comes with its own requirements and earning potential. In Sydney, there are nine vehicle options. From the standard UberX, which is the most popular choice for riders, to the luxury UberSUV, which has more stringent requirements.

The minimum specifications for an UberX vehicle are that it:

• Features no commercial branding
• Has no cosmetic damage
• Has at least four doors
• Has fewer than eight seats, including the driver's seat
• Passes a vehicle inspection
• Has a current registration and CTP insurance in your state or territory
• Has functioning windows and air conditioning

It's vital that you check its history to ensure it stands up to the requirements of Uber and that undiscovered issues won't impact your earning potential.

You can check the reported history of a potential Uber by purchasing a Car History report. This will provide you with comprehensive information on a used vehicle's recorded history, regardless of how many states and territories it has previously been registered in.

¹ Roymorgan.com. Finding No. 7444, Topic: Press Release. Accessed April 2018.

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