Should You Buy a Retired Police Car?
Ex-police vehicles often look like a bargain—tough, powerful, and thousands cheaper than comparable civilian cars. But behind the low price and heavy-duty parts, there are trade-offs. Before you buy, it’s worth knowing what makes these cars unique, what risks they carry, and how to check their history.
Enter the VIN below to instantly check accident history, title status, and service records for any retired police car:
Why People Consider Retired Police Cars
Police cruisers are built for performance and durability. They often come with reinforced suspensions, bigger brakes, upgraded cooling systems, and powerful V6 or V8 engines. Buyers are drawn to them because they offer a lot of hardware for the money. For those on a budget, the value can look unmatched.
The Benefits
There are real advantages to owning a retired police car, especially for drivers who prioritize reliability and toughness:
- Lower cost: Typically priced below similar civilian models.
- Heavy-duty parts: Built to withstand constant use and high mileage.
- Strong engines: Many police vehicles are performance-oriented.
- Utility: Spacious interiors and large trunks are common in sedans like the Ford Crown Victoria or Dodge Charger.
The Drawbacks
On the flip side, police cars are tools of the job—and they live hard lives. Here’s what to watch out for:
- High mileage: Cruisers rack up tens of thousands of miles per year.
- Harsh use: Engines endure long idle times, sudden acceleration, and frequent stops.
- Removed equipment: Holes in dashboards, wires under seats, and patched panels are common.
- Insurance and resale: Some insurers charge more, and resale value can be lower than civilian trims.
What to Check Before Buying
Not all police cars are equal. Some were assigned to a single officer and gently maintained, while others were fleet cars that saw round-the-clock use. Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Run a VIN report for accident history, title issues, or flood damage.
- Check the engine and transmission for signs of excessive idling or wear.
- Inspect the interior for leftover holes, missing panels, or heavy wear.
- Look for rust or corrosion in areas with salted winter roads.
- Ask if it was a take-home car (better maintained) or a shared fleet vehicle.
A VIN report doesn’t just show accidents and title records—it can also reveal whether a car was previously registered as government or fleet-owned. This helps confirm you’re really buying an ex-police vehicle and not just a lookalike model.
Final Thoughts
Retired police cars can be a smart buy if you’re looking for durability and don’t mind quirks like worn interiors or high mileage. For drivers who want an inexpensive workhorse, they can be a great fit. But if you’re after comfort, resale value, or low-maintenance ownership, a standard used car may serve you better. In either case, a VIN check and a mechanic’s inspection are essential before you commit.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional advice. Always verify a vehicle’s condition with a VIN report and have it inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchase.