How to Check a Used Car's History Before You Buy

Before you buy a used car, check four things: a paid history check for finance, write-offs and theft; the free MOT history on GOV.UK; the service history; and that the VIN on the car matches the V5C log book. Together they catch most of the problems that cost buyers money.

What does a vehicle history check show?

A paid history check from a reputable provider pulls together records that you cannot easily see yourself. It should tell you whether the car:

• has outstanding finance, which could mean the lender still owns it

• has been recorded as an insurance write-off, and in which category

• is recorded as stolen

• has had plate changes or shows signs of being cloned

• has mileage readings that do not add up

If finance shows up, do not buy until it has been settled and you have it in writing. Our guide to outstanding finance on a used car explains why.

How do I check the MOT history?

The MOT history is free on GOV.UK. You only need the registration number. Look for:

• Fails and advisories: the same problem coming up year after year, such as corrosion, brakes or suspension.

• Mileage: it should rise steadily at each test. A drop or a long flat spell needs explaining.

• Gaps: a car that went years without an MOT may have been off the road, which is worth asking about.

Our guide to checking mileage history goes into more detail.

What should the service history show?

Dated invoices or stamps that show the mileage, the work done and who did it. Check for:

• regular oil and filter changes at the intervals in the handbook

• timing belt changes where the engine has one

• work that matches the MOT advisories, such as new tyres or brakes after an advisory

Gaps are not always a deal-breaker, but they should be explained. See what to check in a service history.

How do I check the V5C and VIN?

The V5C log book shows the registered keeper, not necessarily the legal owner. Check that:

• the VIN on the V5C matches the VIN on the car, usually at the base of the windscreen and on a plate in the door frame or engine bay

• the colour, engine size and registration match the car in front of you

• the seller's name and address match the V5C, or they can explain why not

Our V5C guide covers what each section means.

What are the red flags?

• No V5C, or a seller who will not show it

• A price well below similar cars

• MOT mileage that goes backwards

• A seller who wants to meet somewhere other than their home or business address

• Signs of crash repair, such as uneven panel gaps or paint that does not match

• Warning lights on the dashboard

If something feels wrong, walk away. There will be another car.

Common questions

Is a history check worth paying for if I am buying from a dealer?

It is still worth having one, or asking the dealer to show you theirs and checking the date it was run. It takes minutes and protects you.

Does the number of owners matter?

Less than you might think. A car with several owners and a full history can be a better buy than a one-owner car with gaps.

What if the car is a Category S or N write-off?

It can be legally repaired and sold, but it must be declared and it affects value. Read Cat S and Cat N explained before deciding.

Buying a used car in Barnsley

anycolourcar.com is based in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. Browse cars in stock or call sales on 01226 574410 with any questions about a car's history. If you want a car you already own looked over, our service centre is on 01226 574321.

Updated October 2026.