1. Introduction: why car checks matter

Before buying or selling a car, it’s important to know its history. Car check tools pull together data from official sources so you can spot problems like outstanding finance, accident damage or mileage issues. A quick online check can save you from big bills and nasty surprises later.

2. What is a car history check?

A car history check is an online report based on the vehicle’s registration number (number plate). The service looks up information stored by organisations such as the DVLA, insurers and finance companies. You usually receive a simple report showing the car’s key details and any warnings.

3. Key information a good car check shows

Most reliable tools will confirm:

• Make, model, colour and engine size
• First registration date and age
• Number of keepers
• MOT history and mileage readings
• Outstanding finance or logbook loans
• Whether the car has been written off or scrapped
• Whether it has been reported stolen

This information helps you decide whether the car is worth buying or how much it might be worth when selling.

4. Free checks vs paid checks

Free checks are useful for basic information such as tax and MOT status. However, they usually don’t include finance data, write‑off records or stolen status. Paid checks cost a small fee but give a far more complete picture, which is worth it for most used cars.

5. Official UK sources you can use

In the UK, some information is available directly from government sites:

• DVLA vehicle information (basic details)
• MOT history and mileage via GOV.UK
• Tax status checker

These tools are trustworthy but limited. They’re a good starting point, especially if you just want to confirm that the car exists and has a sensible MOT record.

6. Third‑party car check providers

Private companies combine DVLA data with information from insurers, finance houses and the police. They often provide simple reports with green/red warnings and clear explanations. Some also include a data guarantee that may compensate you if they miss something important.

7. How buyers use car check tools

Serious buyers almost always run a check before handing over any money. If a report shows issues such as mileage discrepancies, category write‑offs or outstanding finance, many buyers will walk away or heavily reduce their offer. A clean report gives them confidence and can help your car sell faster.

8. How sellers can benefit from running their own checks

Running a car check yourself before selling means you know exactly what’s in your car’s history. You can:

• Spot errors early and try to correct them
• Prepare explanations for any issues
• Price the car realistically

It also shows buyers that you are transparent, especially if you share the report.

9. Common red flags to look out for

When reviewing a report, watch for:

• Mileage going backwards between MOTs
• Category S or N write‑offs without proof of repair
• Current finance or logbook loans
• Stolen markers or scrap records

Any of these can seriously affect the car’s safety, value or whether it can legally be sold.

10. How SellAnyCarAberdeen uses car check tools

At SellAnyCarAberdeen we use trusted car check tools as part of our valuation process. They help us confirm your vehicle’s details quickly and make a fair, accurate offer. When you get a valuation with us, we’ll explain clearly if any history issues affect the price, so there are no surprises.