LOOK BEYOND THE ADVERT
A car can look spotless and still have questions in its past. Check the timeline, ask for evidence and know what you are buying before you pay.
Car Check
Our registration lookup is paused while the service is prepared. The guides and official links below are available now.
THE HISTORY THAT MATTERS
What should a car history check cover?
Different records answer different questions. Read them together and compare every result with the seller’s documents.
MOT & mileage
Look for recurring faults, gaps and unusual mileage changes across past tests.
Outstanding finance
If a finance agreement remains, ask for written evidence that it has been settled.
Insurance write-offs
Check whether an insurer recorded a total loss, then ask what repairs were made.
READ THE WHOLE STORY
A flag needs context.
A mileage entry can be a mistake, and an MOT failure may have been repaired promptly. Ask for invoices, service records and photographs where relevant. A clear result cannot promise that every database is current or that the car is mechanically sound.
01 Check the official records
02 Ask the seller for evidence
03 Inspect the car and VIN
THE DETAILS
Make sense of the result.
What can I check for free?
Use DVLA vehicle enquiry, MOT history and tax status. They are useful foundations, but do not form a full provenance report.
What if finance appears?
Do not hand over money until the seller provides clear written evidence that the agreement has been settled. See our finance guide.
Does a history report replace an inspection?
No. Match the VIN to the V5C, inspect the car, take a test drive and consider an independent mechanic.