Dealers will have to divulge full vehicle history details without being prompted if a new EU directive, designed to protect consumers, is passed this year.

Currently, retailers are only required to disclose a vehicle’s history on request.

The EU directive on Unfair Commercial Practices, expected to be finalised this summer, requires the disclosure of all significant facts about items for sale, if that knowledge would influence a consumer’s decision to buy.

This would include prior ownership details, past mechanical repairs and accident damage history, not otherwise apparent to a prospective buyer.