Complete UK Car Check Guide 2025 - Everything You Need to Know

Buying a used car in the UK without proper checks is like buying a house without a survey. You might get lucky, but you could also end up with a £10,000 problem that could have been spotted with a £20 check.

Every year, thousands of UK car buyers discover too late that their "bargain" has outstanding finance, a hidden accident history, or clocked mileage. This comprehensive guide shows you exactly how to check a used car properly - from free government checks to professional HPI reports.

Why Car Checks Are Essential

The shocking statistics:

• Over 2 million vehicles in the UK have outstanding finance
• Approximately 100,000 cars are clocked (mileage adjusted) each year
• Around 400,000 vehicles have been written off and may not be safe
• An estimated 35,000 cars are listed as stolen

Without proper checks, you could:

• Lose the car to a finance company (even though you paid cash)
• Buy a dangerous write-off that's been poorly repaired
• Overpay for a car with fake low mileage
• Purchase stolen property and face criminal investigation
• Miss serious mechanical issues hidden by the seller

The good news: Most of these problems can be spotted with the right checks, many of which are completely free.

The 5 Essential Car Checks Every Buyer Must Do

1. HPI Check (or Alternative Vehicle History Check)

What it reveals:

• Outstanding finance (highest risk)
• Write-off history (Cat A, B, S, N)
• Stolen vehicle status
• Number plate changes
• Previous keepers
• Mileage anomalies
• Import/export records

Cost: £9.99-£39.99 depending on provider and detail level

Our recommendation: An HPI check (or equivalent from RAC, AA, or CarSorted) is essential for any used car purchase. The £20-30 cost could save you thousands.

→ Get a comprehensive HPI check from CarSorted

2. MOT History Check

What it reveals:

• MOT test history (up to 10+ years)
• Recorded mileage at each test
• Failure reasons and advisories
• Test dates (spotting missed tests)
• Previous odometer readings (clocking detection)

Cost: FREE via gov.uk

The MOT history is incredibly valuable - it shows:

• How the car has been maintained
• Whether mileage is genuine (mileage recorded yearly)
• What problems have occurred
• If the car has been used commercially (high annual mileage)

How to check MOT history:

1. Visit: https://www.gov.uk/check-mot-history
2. Enter the registration number
3. Review the complete test history
4. Check mileage progression (should increase steadily)
5. Note any recurring failures or advisories

Red flags in MOT history:

• Mileage that decreases or jumps unusually
• Multiple consecutive failures (suggests poor maintenance)
• Missing years (car wasn't tested - illegal if used)
• Serious structural advisories
• Repeated same failures (problems not fixed)

→ Learn more: How to Check MOT History and What It Reveals

3. Service History Check

For cars built after 2012, service history is increasingly digital and can be verified online.

What it reveals:

• Genuine service records from main dealers
• Service dates and mileage
• Work completed at each service
• Whether servicing is up to date
• If the paper service book matches digital records

Cost: £19.99-£29.99 for digital verification

Why it matters:

• A car without service history can be worth 15-30% less
• Missing services void warranties
• Poor maintenance = future expensive repairs
• Service history proves the seller's claims

For 2012+ cars: Use CarSorted's digital service history check to verify dealer records instantly.

→ Check digital service history online with CarSorted

For pre-2012 cars: Request the physical service book and contact dealers/garages listed to verify stamps are genuine.

→ Read our guide: How to Check a Car's Service History Online

4. Mileage Verification

Clocking (mileage fraud) is rampant in the UK used car market. An estimated 1 in 20 cars has been clocked.

How to verify mileage:

Free methods:

1. MOT history - Shows mileage at each annual test
2. Service book - Check recorded mileage at services
3. Old MOT certificates - If seller has kept them
4. Online history - CarVertical, MyCarCheck show historical mileage

Physical inspection:

• Check wear on pedals, steering wheel, gear knob, driver's seat
• 100,000+ miles: Heavy wear is normal
• 30,000 miles with worn pedals = suspicious

Digital verification:

• Professional checks access national mileage databases
• Cross-reference MOT, service, insurance records
• Identify mileage discrepancies

Red flags:

• Mileage lower than MOT history shows
• Excessive wear for low claimed mileage
• Service book stamps at wrong intervals
• Recent replacement of driver's seat or steering wheel
• Suspicious modifications to odometer area

→ Learn more: How to Spot a Clocked Car - Warning Signs

5. Vehicle Identity Check

Ensures the car is who it claims to be.

What to verify:

• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) matches documents
• VIN hasn't been tampered with
• Number plates are genuine (not cloned)
• Engine number matches V5C
• Chassis number matches records

Where to find the VIN:

• Dashboard (visible through windscreen, driver's side)
• Driver's door pillar
• Under bonnet (usually on bulkhead)
• V5C registration document
• Service book

How to check:

1. Locate VIN in multiple locations on the car
2. Verify VIN matches V5C exactly
3. Check VIN against HPI/vehicle check report
4. Ensure VIN hasn't been tampered with (look for scratches, re-stamping)

Red flags:

• VIN doesn't match V5C
• VIN plate looks damaged or replaced
• Different VIN numbers in different locations
• Seller can't provide V5C
• Number plates look brand new on an old car

Free Car Checks You Can Do Right Now

Before spending money on professional checks, start with these free options:

1. Gov.uk Vehicle Enquiry Service (FREE)

What you get:

• Make, model, colour
• Year of registration
• MOT status (valid/expired)
• Tax status
• CO2 emissions
• Engine size

Link: https://www.gov.uk/get-vehicle-information-from-dvla

What it checks: Confirms basic details match what the seller claims.

2. MOT History Check (FREE)

As detailed above - invaluable mileage and history data.

Link: https://www.gov.uk/check-mot-history

3. Vehicle Tax Check (FREE)

What you get:

• Current tax status
• When tax is due
• Tax rate
• Vehicle details

Link: https://www.gov.uk/check-vehicle-tax

Red flag: If tax has been off the road (SORN) frequently, the car may have mechanical issues.

4. Outstanding Recalls Check (FREE)

What you get:

• Any manufacturer safety recalls not completed
• Details of recall issue
• How to get it fixed (free at dealer)

Link: https://www.gov.uk/check-vehicle-recall

Important: Recalls are fixed free by dealers, so if one exists, make it a condition of sale.

Paid Car Checks - Are They Worth It?

Short answer: Yes, absolutely. For £20-40, a professional vehicle history check is essential.

What Professional Checks Include

HPI Check (£29.99):

• Outstanding finance check ✓
• Stolen vehicle check ✓
• Write-off register ✓
• Number plate changes ✓
• Scrapped vehicle check ✓
• Mileage anomalies ✓
• Import/export history ✓

AA Car Check (£19.99):

• Similar data to HPI
• Slightly cheaper
• Good reputation

RAC Vehicle Check (£24.99):

• Comprehensive history
• Finance and stolen checks
• Trusted brand

CarSorted Complete Check (£24.99):

• All standard checks
• Digital service history (2012+ cars)
• One-stop solution

Which Paid Check Should You Choose?

For most buyers: CarSorted or HPI (similar coverage, trusted)

For older cars (pre-2012): Any reputable provider is fine

For newer cars (2012+): CarSorted includes digital service history verification

Budget option: AA Car Check (£19.99)

Most comprehensive: HPI Check (£29.99) - the industry standard

Our recommendation: Spend £25-30 on a comprehensive check. It's a tiny fraction of the car's value and could save you thousands.

Understanding Write-Off Categories

If your vehicle check reveals the car is a write-off, here's what the categories mean:

Category A (Scrap Only)

• Total loss
• Must be crushed
• Cannot be repaired
• Should never be back on the road (if it is, walk away)

Category B (Break for Parts)

• Extensive damage
• Can be dismantled for parts
• Shell must be crushed
• Should never be back on the road (if it is, walk away)

Category S (Structural Damage)

• Previously Cat C
• Repairable structural damage
• Can be repaired and put back on road
• Buyer beware: Check repair quality thoroughly
• Value reduced by 20-40%

Category N (Non-Structural Damage)

• Previously Cat D
• Non-structural damage (electrical, cosmetic, etc.)
• Can be repaired and put back on road
• Potentially good value if repaired properly
• Value reduced by 10-20%

Should you buy a Cat S or Cat N car?

Maybe, if:

• Price reflects the category (20-40% discount)
• You have proof of professional repair
• You've had it inspected by a trusted mechanic
• You understand insurance may be harder/more expensive

Avoid if:

• Seller didn't disclose it (dishonesty = walk away)
• No repair receipts available
• Damage was severe
• It's a Cat A or B (illegal to be on road)

→ Learn more: Understanding Write-Off Categories - Cat S, Cat N Explained

The Complete Car Check Process - Step by Step

Follow this process for every used car you're serious about buying:

Before Viewing the Car

Step 1: Get the registration number from the advert

Step 2: Run free gov.uk checks:

• Vehicle enquiry (basic details)
• MOT history (mileage, failures)
• Tax status
• Recall check

Step 3: Analyze MOT history:

• Is mileage consistent?
• Any red flags in failures?
• Recent advisories that need addressing?

Step 4: If it passes free checks, pay for HPI/vehicle history check (£20-30)

Step 5: Review paid check results:

• Outstanding finance? (Deal-breaker)
• Stolen? (Walk away immediately)
• Write-off? (Consider carefully)
• Mileage anomalies? (Investigate)

Step 6: If digital service history available (2012+ cars), verify it

Step 7: Only proceed to viewing if checks are clean or issues are acceptable

During the Viewing

Step 8: Verify VIN matches documents in multiple locations

Step 9: Check physical condition matches mileage:

• Pedal wear
• Steering wheel wear
• Seat condition
• Service book stamps

Step 10: Request and verify documents:

• V5C in seller's name (red flag if not)
• Service history (book or digital)
• MOT certificates
• Previous invoices/receipts

Step 11: Test drive and mechanical inspection

Step 12: Consider paying for professional pre-purchase inspection (£100-200)

Before Completing Purchase

Step 13: If buying from dealer, confirm they'll settle any outstanding finance

Step 14: If buying privately and finance exists, walk away (you could lose the car)

Step 15: Verify seller's identity matches V5C

Step 16: Complete purchase only when satisfied with all checks

Red Flags That Should Make You Walk Away

Some warning signs are absolute deal-breakers:

Immediate Walk-Away Situations

1. Outstanding finance on a private sale

   • You could lose the car even after paying
   • Finance company has legal right to repossess
   • Only buy if dealer settles finance before sale

2. Stolen vehicle

   • Criminal offense to buy stolen goods
   • Police will seize the car
   • You lose your money

3. Cat A or Cat B write-off

   • Illegal to be on the road
   • Dangerous
   • Should have been crushed

4. VIN doesn't match documents

   • Possibly cloned or ringed (stolen car with fake identity)
   • Serious fraud
   • Criminal implications

5. Seller won't provide V5C

   • Must see original V5C
   • Seller must be registered keeper
   • No V5C = walk away

Serious Concerns (Investigate Further)

6. Mileage discrepancies

   • Check is thorough and conclusive
   • If confirmed clocking, walk away
   • If inconclusive, request professional verification

7. No service history on valuable car

   • Could reduce value by 20-30%
   • Negotiate significant discount
   • Budget for potential repairs

8. Multiple previous owners in short period

   • 4+ owners in 2 years = red flag
   • Could indicate problem car
   • Investigate why

9. Serious structural damage (Cat S)

   • Only proceed if:
     • Professional repair evidence available
     • Price reflects risk (30-40% discount)
     • Independent inspection confirms quality

10. Seller is evasive or dishonest

    • Trust your instincts
    • Any lies = walk away
    • Honest sellers welcome questions

How Much Do Car Checks Cost?

Here's the complete breakdown:

Free Checks

• Gov.uk vehicle enquiry: FREE
• MOT history: FREE
• Tax check: FREE
• Recall check: FREE

Total free checks: £0

Essential Paid Checks

• HPI or equivalent vehicle check: £20-30
• Digital service history (2012+ cars): £20-30 (often included in comprehensive check)

Total essential paid checks: £20-50

Optional Professional Checks

• Pre-purchase mechanical inspection: £100-200
• Specialist inspection (prestige/classic): £200-500

Total recommended budget: £120-250

What's the Minimum You Should Spend?

Bare minimum:

• Free gov.uk checks (£0)
• MOT history (£0)
• HPI check (£20-30)

Total: £20-30

Recommended:

• Free checks (£0)
• Comprehensive vehicle check (£25-40)
• Service history check if 2012+ (£20-30, often included)
• Pre-purchase inspection if buying expensive car (£100-200)

Total: £25-270 depending on car value

ROI: Spending £50 on checks for a £5,000 car is 1% of the value. That £50 could save you:

• £2,000-5,000 if finance is outstanding
• £1,000-3,000 from clocked mileage
• £3,000-10,000 from hidden accident damage
• £500-2,000 from missing service history

It's the best £50 you'll ever spend.

CarSorted Complete Car Check Package

For the simplest, most comprehensive checking solution, CarSorted offers everything you need in one place:

What's included:

• Full HPI-equivalent vehicle history check
• Outstanding finance verification
• Stolen vehicle check
• Write-off register check
• Mileage anomaly detection
• Digital service history verification (2012+ cars)
• Number plate change history
• Previous keepers
• Import/export records

Price: £24.99

Why CarSorted:

• One check covers everything
• Digital service history included
• Instant online results
• Trusted UK provider
• Money-back guarantee if data is incorrect

→ Run a complete car check with CarSorted now

Common Questions About Car Checks

Can I check a car for free?

Yes, partially. The gov.uk MOT history and vehicle enquiry are free and reveal valuable information (especially mileage). However, they don't check:

• Outstanding finance (critical)
• Stolen status (critical)
• Write-off history (important)

Recommendation: Use free checks first, then pay £20-30 for a comprehensive check if the car passes initial scrutiny.

How do I check if a car has outstanding finance?

Only through a paid vehicle history check (HPI, AA, RAC, CarSorted, etc.). Free checks don't include finance information.

This is essential - if you buy a car with outstanding finance, the finance company can legally repossess it even though you paid cash.

Is an HPI check worth it?

Absolutely yes. For £20-30, you get:

• Finance check (could save you thousands)
• Stolen check (could save you the entire car value)
• Write-off check (could save you from dangerous vehicle)
• Mileage verification (could save you overpaying)

It's the best £20-30 insurance you can buy.

What if the HPI check shows outstanding finance?

If buying from a dealer:

• They must settle the finance before selling
• Get written confirmation finance will be cleared
• Don't complete until finance is settled

If buying privately:

• Walk away
• The finance company can repossess the car
• You lose your money
• Not worth the risk

Can I check service history online?

Yes, for cars built from 2012 onwards:

• Manufacturers store digital service records
• Accessed via VIN
• Shows genuine dealer services

Use CarSorted or contact main dealers directly with VIN.

For pre-2012 cars:

• Rely on physical service book
• Verify stamps with listed garages
• Harder to verify authenticity

How do I know if mileage is genuine?

Check:

1. MOT history (mileage recorded annually)
2. Service book (mileage at each service)
3. Physical wear (pedals, wheel, seat)
4. Old MOT certificates
5. Digital records via vehicle check

Red flags:

• Mileage decreases in MOT history
• Low mileage but heavy wear
• Service stamps at wrong intervals

Should I buy a Cat S car?

Only if:

• Price reflects the category (30-40% discount)
• Professional repair receipts available
• Independent inspection confirms quality repair
• You understand insurance may cost more
• You accept reduced resale value

Avoid if:

• Damage was severe
• No repair evidence
• You plan to resell soon
• Insurance is already expensive

What's the difference between HPI and other checks?

HPI is the industry leader and original vehicle checking service. However:

HPI: £29.99, most established, comprehensive AA: £19.99, similar coverage, trusted brand RAC: £24.99, good coverage, reputable CarSorted: £24.99, includes service history, modern platform

All access similar databases. Choose based on:

• Price
• Features needed (service history?)
• Brand trust

Can I get my money back if checks are wrong?

Most providers offer a guarantee:

• HPI: £30,000 guarantee if data is incorrect
• AA: Similar guarantee
• RAC: Data accuracy guarantee
• CarSorted: Money-back guarantee

Always check provider's guarantee terms.

Final Checklist Before Buying

Use this checklist for every used car purchase:

Before Viewing

• Free vehicle enquiry check (gov.uk)
• Free MOT history check
• Free tax status check
• Free recall check
• Paid HPI/vehicle history check (£20-30)
• Digital service history check if 2012+ (£20-30)
• All checks are clear or issues are acceptable

During Viewing

• VIN matches V5C in multiple locations
• V5C is present and in seller's name
• Service history available (book or digital proof)
• Mileage matches wear and tear
• No signs of accident damage or poor repairs
• Test drive completed and satisfactory
• All features/electronics work

Before Purchase

• Professional inspection if expensive car
• Any outstanding finance will be settled (dealer sales)
• No outstanding finance (private sales)
• Seller ID matches V5C
• All documents are genuine
• Purchase price agreed in writing
• Payment method is secure

After Purchase

• Received V5C or new keeper slip
• Taxed the vehicle
• Insured the vehicle
• Received all keys and documents
• Registered as new keeper with DVLA

Conclusion

Checking a used car properly is not optional - it's essential. With outstanding finance on 2 million UK vehicles, 100,000 clocked cars annually, and hundreds of thousands of dangerous write-offs, the risks are real.

The good news: most problems are easily spotted with the right checks, many of which are free.

Minimum requirement:

1. Free MOT history check
2. Paid vehicle history check (£20-30)

Recommended:

1. All free gov.uk checks
2. Comprehensive vehicle check (£25-40)
3. Service history verification
4. Professional inspection for valuable cars

Don't let a £20-30 check stand between you and a safe, legal, properly valued car purchase. The few pounds spent on checks could save you thousands in the long run.

Ready to check a car? Get a complete vehicle check with CarSorted now →

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Related Guides

• How to Check a Car's Service History Online
• Complete HPI Check Guide - What You Need to Know
• How to Check MOT History and What It Reveals
• How to Spot a Clocked Car - Warning Signs
• Understanding Write-Off Categories - Cat S, Cat N Explained
• Complete Guide to Buying a Car in the UK
• How to Negotiate Car Prices - Save £1,000-£5,000