History disappeared?

[Gareth]

I just got a memory come up on my computer, 3 years ago I first drove my Series 2a after a restoration. It took me 2 years to do and I was very pleased with the end result.

I sold it on and I know it got sold on again to a chap in Harrogate. He contacted me to compliment me on the restoration.

I'm a nosey parker and whilst looking up the reg on dvla website mot/tax checker, it comes up as does not exist. Why would this happen?

[Alan Drover]

Maybe a personal registration number has been issued to it.

[ChiefBeard]

That'd be one reason, and/or ...stolen or exported? Mine's not on its original plate. Long story with theft, insurers, the plate, and the general mess all that involves.

[diffwhine]

Likewise, my money is on it having been exported, although a full DVLA check should still show it and with an export marker.

The other less palatable possibility is that it has been stolen or declared a total loss following an accident.

Either way its strange - especially if you only off loaded it relatively recently.

[Gareth]

Ok thanks. I do hope it's enjoying a happy life in the sun somewhere! It would be a real shame if it had been stolen or smashed up.

[Alan Drover]

My Series 3 doesn't have its original number either. It has an undated 1963 number and its original number comes up as no trace.

[Worf]

Most likely the vehicle now has a "cherished" plate and the old number is on retention. Retention numbers don't show up on DVLA search.