UK VEHICLE CHECKS
Start with the registration. Compare the records, check the paperwork and inspect the car before you pay.
Compare the records with the car before you buy.
START HERE
Practical guides covering the main areas buyers should inspect, from paperwork to the test drive.
The checks to make before viewing, during a test drive and before paying.
Read the guide02Compare MOT records, mileage and the paperwork in one timeline.
Read the guide03Understand the branded report and what to compare between providers.
Read the guide04Understand VRMs, VINs, plate changes and mismatched details.
Read the guide05Know which questions to ask the seller about finance.
Read the guide06Understand write-off categories and the questions a marker raises.
Read the guideBEFORE MONEY CHANGES HANDS
Look up the vehicle record first, then follow our inspection guides before you view the car in person.
Open the buying checklist ↗Start with the registration. Compare vehicle details, MOT results and recorded mileage.
Compare the VIN and V5C with the car. Ask for service invoices and repair receipts.
Arrange a viewing, a test drive and an independent inspection where needed.
BUYING & OWNERSHIP
Short answer: if you bought a car privately, honestly and without knowing it was still on hire purchase or conditional sale, the law usually lets you keep it. Section…
Read the guideShort answer: SORN stands for Statutory Off Road Notification. It is how you tell DVLA that a vehicle is being kept off the public road, so you can stop…
Read the guideShort answer: to check a V5C logbook is genuine, look for the “DVL” watermark, make sure the serial number is not in the ranges GOV.UK lists as stolen, and…
Read the guideShort answer: before you buy a used car you plan to drive in London, check its number plate on TfL’s official vehicle checker. If you will drive in an…
Read the guideRESEARCH A MODEL
GOT A REGISTRATION?
A history check supports your decision. It does not replace a physical inspection.