Which free car checks are the best?

 

Using data provided by DVLA and other motoring databases

 

For UK motorists planning to purchase a used car, obtaining a car history check is a crucial step in the buying process.

Often available at no charge, a car history check offers a detailed look at a vehicle’s full history and is the best way to make certain you don’t end up with a problem car.

Below, you’ll learn what information is included in the best car history check report and what you will need to perform one.

Best vehicle history check

Enter a vehicle registration (number plate)
Example KX63TWF

What Information is included when checking car history?

A car history check relies on information made available by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), as well as its full MOT history. Included in the are the::

  •  Year of manufacture
  •  Make, model, colour, and body type
  •  Date the vehicle was initially registered and a car owner check depicting all previous owners
  •  Weight, engine size, fuel type, number of gears, and transmission
  •  CO2 emissions details
  •  Issue date of last V5C (log book)
  •  Date MOT expires
  •  Vehicle tax, including the current rate and when it will expire
  •  Mileage
  •  Fuel type and anticipated fuel costs
  •  Whether or not the car as been scrapped by the DVLA
  •  Whether or not the vehicle has been written off by an insurance company
  •  Whether or not the vehicle is listed as stolen on the Police National Computer
  •  Any outstanding finance agreements or loan
  •  Whether or not the vehicle has been imported or exported
  •  Number plate changes
  •  VIN/ chassis check
  •  Alerts on potential recalls and/ or failure/ advisory notices

 

What is Needed to Perform a Car History Check?

In order to obtain a car history check, you will need the vehicle’s registration number/ number plate. If you are purchasing a used vehicle from a private seller, you may have to pay for the car history check. The cost varies, depending on what internet sit you go through to obtain the car history check. However, if you are making your purchase through a dealer, they will usually cover the cost.

Pay Special Attention To

There is certain information that you should pay special attention to when reading over a car history check. This includes:

  •  Any salvage, loss, or junk events and/ or insurance write-offs, which indicates the vehicle has previously been involved in a significant accident
  •  Any safety recalls or defects that cannot be easily fixed
  •  Mileage, looking for any discrepancies that could indicate the odometer may have been rolled back
  •  Where the vehicle has “lived,” looking for any areas that may have been flooded
  •  Any lien on the vehicle that is owed by the previous seller

Purchasing a used vehicle is a major decision that shouldn’t be made impulsively. Always be sure to look at a vehicle’s car history check before you decide on a purchase.

Related articles within this blog about car previous owner history