There are useful checks you can do for free before you buy a used car. Start with official UK services and compare what they show with the vehicle and the seller’s documents.
What you can check for free
- DVLA vehicle information: details such as make, colour, fuel type and registration information.
- MOT history: test results, recorded mileage, failures and advisories.
- MOT status: whether a vehicle has a current MOT.
- Vehicle tax status: whether the vehicle is taxed or declared off road.
What a free check may miss
These official services do not replace a comprehensive provenance check or physical inspection. Outstanding finance, theft markers and insurance write-off records may require a separate provider. A commercial report should state its sources, coverage, date and price clearly. Never assume that a blank result is a guarantee.
Use the results together
Compare the VIN and V5C with the car. Ask the seller about mileage changes, MOT advisories, repairs and service gaps. See and drive the car where appropriate, and consider an independent inspection. Our used car checklist sets out the full process.
The Check My Vehicle search API is paused during site development. The free official links above remain available.