How to Check a Car's History: Complete Guide

Buying a used car is a big deal, and you want to be sure you're making a smart choice. It's easy to get excited about the look and feel of a car, but its past is just as important as its shiny paintwork. A vehicle history check gives you a peek into a car's life story, helping you uncover any hidden surprises before you buy.

Think of it as a background check for your potential new car. It’s a simple step that offers peace of mind and can save you from future headaches and unexpected costs. This guide will walk you through what a vehicle check is, why it’s so important, and how to do one yourself.

What is a vehicle history check?

A vehicle history check is a report that gathers information about a car using its registration number. It pulls details from various official sources, including the DVLA, police databases, and insurance records, to create a comprehensive picture of the car's past.

A basic, free check will usually tell you things like:

• The car’s make, model, and colour
• Engine size and fuel type
• MOT and tax status
• CO2 emissions

For a small fee, a more detailed check can give you much more crucial information. These paid reports are well worth it, as they often include:

• Details of any outstanding finance
• Whether the car has been reported as stolen
• If it has ever been written off by an insurer
• Any mileage discrepancies (a sign of ‘clocking’)
• Logbook (V5C) verification
• Checks to see if the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) matches the records

Why is a vehicle history check so important?

When you’re buying a used car, a history check is your best friend. It gives you the confidence that the car you’re interested in is exactly what the seller claims it is. The report can reveal if the vehicle has been in a serious accident, if it's been scrapped, or if there are any other red flags you need to know about.

This information is not just for avoiding dodgy deals. It can also be a useful tool for negotiation. For example, if you're looking at a used Ford Fiesta and the MOT history shows a recurring issue, you have a fair reason to discuss the price with the seller. It gives you a clearer picture of how well the car has been maintained.

Similarly, if you were trying to decide between two popular cars like a Hyundai Tucson and a Nissan Juke, checking their histories could be the tie-breaker. You can compare their pasts to see which one has had a smoother ride over the years.

How to check a car’s history

Checking a car’s history is straightforward and can save you a lot of trouble later on. Here’s a simple process to follow:

1. Run an online history check: Start with a free check and consider a paid one for more detail.
2. Check the MOT history for free: The government website provides a full MOT history.
3. Compare the mileage: Does the mileage on the MOT history match what's on the car's odometer?
4. Look for serious issues: Check if the car has been stolen, written off, or has outstanding finance.
5. View the car in person: Always see the vehicle for yourself to ensure everything matches the report.

When you see the car, it’s also a good idea to physically check that the VIN on the car matches the V5C logbook. Make sure the V5C looks legitimate—it should have a DVLA watermark—and that the seller is the registered keeper.

How to get a free vehicle history check

You can get a basic vehicle history check for free on the GOV.UK website. This will pull information directly from the DVLA. It confirms the car's details, MOT status, and tax due date. All you need is the car's registration number.

Several online companies also offer free checks, which usually provide the same basic information with an option to upgrade to a more detailed report. No matter what car you're considering—whether it's an Audi, a Volkswagen, or a Skoda—taking a few minutes to run a free check is always a good idea.

How to check a car’s MOT history

Checking a car's MOT history is easy, free, and incredibly useful. The GOV.UK website lets you see the results of every MOT test a car has had since 2005 (for cars in England, Scotland, and Wales).

You’ll see whether the car passed or failed, the mileage recorded at each test, and details of any faults or advisories. This can highlight recurring problems and give you an idea of how well the previous owner looked after the vehicle. You can even see if the car was ever subject to a manufacturer safety recall.

Should you pay for a vehicle history check?

While the free checks are great, they don't tell you everything. A paid vehicle history check provides a deeper dive into the areas that matter most for your safety and finances. For a small fee, often around £10-£20, you can find out if a car:

• Has outstanding finance owed on it
• Is recorded as stolen
• Has ever been declared an insurance write-off
• Shows any signs of mileage tampering
• Has had previous number plates
• Is an import or has been exported

Paying for a comprehensive check is a small investment that can protect you from buying a car with a hidden and potentially costly past. It’s one of the most effective ways to avoid common scams and ensure you’re making a purchase you’ll be happy with for years to come.