UK VEHICLE CHECKS
Check the car.
Know the story.
A good-looking advert tells you what the seller wants you to see. Start with the registration, then check the records and the car itself before you commit.
Car Check
Vehicle lookup is temporarily paused while we finish the service. See how the check will work.
START WITH THE FACTS
What should you check before buying?
One check rarely tells the whole story. Look at the MOT record, confirm the vehicle’s identity, ask about finance and damage, then compare the paperwork with the car in front of you.
MOT & mileage
Read past tests, failures, advisories and mileage readings. Repeated faults deserve a closer look.
Finance & damage
Ask the seller about outstanding finance, insurance write-offs and repairs. Know which evidence to request.
Identity & paperwork
Match the registration, VIN and V5C. If the details do not line up, find out why before paying.
A SMARTER WAY TO BUY
Take a closer look before you say yes.
A clean advert is a starting point. Our guides show you what to verify, what to ask and when to walk away.
01 Check the official record
02 Question any gaps
03 Inspect the car and documents
POPULAR CHECKS
Find the answer you need.
Before you buy
Is a free car check enough?
It is a useful first step. It will not necessarily show finance, insurance damage or every issue in a vehicle’s past. Read our car history guide before deciding what else to check.
What if the MOT mileage looks wrong?
Ask for service invoices and an explanation. A recording error is possible, but a gap or sudden drop needs investigating. See our mileage check guide.
Can a report replace an inspection?
No. Check the VIN, paperwork and condition yourself, and consider an independent inspection for a car you are serious about buying.
While vehicle search is paused: you can check DVLA vehicle details, MOT history and tax status on GOV.UK. We will publish report coverage and pricing before our lookup goes live.