Check a Car

MyPlateCheck

Check the car before you buy it.

Start with a free vehicle check, then go deeper only when you need to.

Run a Free Vehicle Check

UK vehicle history check

Go beyond MOT and tax before money changes hands.

The public vehicle record answers useful questions, but many of the expensive risks sit deeper. A buyer-focused history report can add information about insurance history, theft markers, keeper activity and, on the appropriate report, outstanding finance and salvage data.

UK registration lookupMOT & tax contextBuyer-focused reports

Why deeper history matters

A car can have a valid MOT and still have a history that materially affects its value or suitability. Insurance write-off, theft, finance and salvage information require checks beyond the standard MOT and tax record.

Match the report depth to the purchase

For a lower-risk purchase you may only need public facts plus basic history context. For higher-value vehicles, finance or salvage concerns, the most complete report is usually the more sensible choice.

Use data to ask better questions

A history report is not a replacement for inspecting the vehicle. Its purpose is to identify the areas you should verify with the seller, paperwork or a professional inspection.

How to use this information

MyPlateCheck combines available vehicle data into buyer-focused checks. Data can contain omissions or recording errors, so use it alongside the V5C, VIN, service history, seller evidence and a physical inspection. Resolve material inconsistencies before paying for a vehicle.

Questions buyers ask

Useful answers before you check.

Does every vehicle history report include finance?+

No. MyPlateCheck keeps outstanding finance in the Ultimate report rather than presenting it as part of the lower Buyer tier.

Can a written-off car legally return to the road?+

Some insurance write-off categories can return to the road if repaired appropriately, while others cannot. The category and quality of repair matter.

Is a history check enough before buying?+

No. Always inspect the vehicle and documents, verify the seller and consider an independent mechanical inspection for significant purchases.

Start with the registration

Check the vehicle before you commit.

Run the free vehicle lookup first, then choose deeper history checks if the purchase needs them.