DVLA tell me my my Austin Healey has been cloned, can I claim compensation?

When I came to sell my 100/4M in October 2023, I was made aware that I was not the registered owner, that DVLA had issued a replacement V5C for a replica 100/4M. I remained in this position while DVLA investigated, two police checks at my house looking at the 40 year plus history, I was told originally that I could not drive the car as I was not the legal owner! Although DVLA later did allow me to use the car (2 cars on the road with the same identity! And they allowed this?).

DVLA have offered me £150 as compensation, the images of both cars are still on line, I very much think this might have devalued my car (£60,000?) not to mention the cloned car which was sold for £175,000 but now I assume valued as a replica rather that an original. Someone has committed fraud at my expense, not being able to sell my car or even drive it (to begin with).

Is £150 reasonable considering the above and four months of stress, hassle, sleeplessness etc?

Asked on 28 January 2024 by Mark Parkman

Answered by David Ross
We believe that the responsibility lies with the police and the DVLA to investigate the cloned vehicle, as you have the evidence to confirm that you are the owner of the original vehicle. You can decline the offer of compensation from the DVLA in the hope that they offer a greater amount, but if you are seeking significant compensation then we would suggest you seek independent legal advice.
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