Buy Smart - Check the Car's Past First
Check if a car is stolen, written off, under finance, has mileage discrepancies, and more. Access 80+ data points, including DVLA records, for confident and informed buying decisions. Get a car check now!
- 1 in 3 used cars in the UK have outstanding finance.
- 2,205 cars are written off daily.
- 27.5% of cars have a recorded number plate change.
- Over 200,000 stolen V5C registration documents are in circulation.
- 1.4 million cars are scrapped each year.
- 61,343 vehicles were reported stolen only in 2024
What is a Car Check?
A car check is a fast and reliable way to verify a vehicle’s hidden past before purchase or sale. It reveals if the car has ever been stolen, written off, scrapped, imported, exported, or has unpaid finance attached. By running a car reg check, you protect yourself from fraud, avoid unexpected costs, and make a smarter, safer purchase.
A car check report packs in over 80 key details, including DVLA registration data, mileage records, MOT history, MOT and tax status, number of previous keepers, plate changes, and insurance write-off categories. With all this verified information, you can clearly see the car’s true history, condition, and value before committing to buy.
Why Should You Check Car History in the UK?
Picture this: A project manager from Manchester bought a Mini Countryman for £17,500 from a dealership. Just eight months later, when trading it in, car checks revealed the car had actually been written off in the past.
This costly surprise shows why running a car check is essential. It protects buyers from hidden risks and helps sellers build trust. Here are the key implications for both sides:
For Buyer
If you’re buying a used car, checking the car history can benefit you in the following ways:
Financial riskBuying a car that’s been written off without knowing it can lead to overpaying. Safety risksHidden damage will make the vehicle unsafe to drive. Lower resale valueDiscovering a car’s write-off history later can hurt its resale price and trade-in value. Potential for costly repairsUndisclosed damage may lead to unexpected maintenance costs down the line. |
For Seller
Providing the vehicle history report can help dealerships and private sellers sell faster. Others include:
Legal risks
Not showing the car’s write-off history could lead to legal action from the buyer.
Damage to reputation
Selling a car without disclosing its history can harm the dealership’s reputation.
Refunds
Sellers may be required to provide a full refund if the car’s write-off history is known later, as in the case above.
Ethical concerns
Selling a bad car without disclosure raises ethical issues and could hurt your future business.
What’s Included in Our Car Check Report?
From MOT history to theft records, write offs, auction history, and more, we offer more than just the basics. Here’s exactly what you’ll get with our full car reg check:
Hidden damages
Cars sold at auction may have accident damage not visible at first glance. Without checking auction history, you risk buying a vehicle with costly hidden repairs that affect safety and performance.
Outstanding Finance Check
Quickly check if there is any unpaid finance on the vehicle to avoid the risk of repossession and losing the car.
Insurance Write Off Check
Verify whether the car has been declared a total loss due to damage, and identify the write-off category - Cat A, B, S, N, or F.
Car Mileage Check
Review the vehicle's mileage history to ensure the odometer hasn’t been tampered with (clocked). Avoid falling victim to fraudulent deals.
Stolen Car Check
Check if the vehicle has ever been reported as stolen. Stolen vehicles can be seized, leaving you without your car and money.
High-Risk Records
Find out if there are any third-party interests in the vehicle, potentially indicating a fraudulent background. Don’t buy cars with suspicious histories.
Car Spec Check
Ensure the car’s original specifications match the seller’s description. Check car mpg, design, engine, dimensions, and weight.
Scrapped Vehicle Check
Confirm if the vehicle has been scrapped and issued a Certificate of Destruction. If it has, it’s no longer roadworthy and should be avoided.
DVLA Auction History
Check if the vehicle has been sold at an auction, which may point to previous damage, salvage records, or other issues. See up to ten images of the car.
Number Plate History
Look for any changes to the vehicle’s registration plate or color. These changes could indicate past damage or repairs.
Vehicle Owner Check
Discover how many previous owners the car has had. A high number of owners could suggest recurring problems with the vehicle.
Exported & Imported Vehicle Check
Verify whether the car has been imported or exported. Such vehicles may have hidden issues from overseas markets, which can be spotted with a check.
Log Book (V5C) History
Confirm the car’s legal ownership by checking its registration details, ensuring they are legitimate and up to date. Check recent logbook updates.
MOT and Road Tax Check
Review the vehicle’s MOT results for any failures or advisories and ensure it has valid road tax to avoid fines and ensure roadworthiness.
Vehicle Colour Change
Verify if the car’s colour has been changed from its original registration. Colour changes may indicate past repairs or accident damage.
Service History Check
Verify the car’s service history to make sure that it has a clean track record and in good condition.
Smart Car Check Free Car Check Vs. Full Car History Checks
Not sure if you need a free or full vehicle check report? Here we compare Smart Car Check’s free and paid car history checks, showing what each includes and why upgrading matters.
| Feature | Free Car Check | Full Car Check |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle specifications | ||
| Vehicle registration details | ||
| MOT & Tax due date | ||
| Exported | ||
| Mileage discrepancy | ||
| ULEZ compliance | ||
| Running costs | ||
| Vehicle performance | ||
| Fuel economy | ||
| CO2 emissions | ||
| SafetyEuro N cap | ||
| Mileage history | ||
| MOT History | ||
| Recalls | ||
| Auction records | ||
| Stolen car check | ||
| Outstanding finance | ||
| Insurance write-off | ||
| Vehicle log book details | ||
| Number of previous keepers | ||
| Number of plate changes | ||
| Color changes | ||
| SMMT details | ||
| Scrapped | ||
| Imported/Imported Non EU | ||
| Certificate of destruction issued | ||
| Electric vehicle charging data |
How to Get a Car History Check Report?
Our car check service supports all vehicles, including cars, trucks, trailers, and motorcycles. Follow these simple steps to get a free and full car check:
Step 1: Enter the Reg Number or VIN
Enter the vehicle’s registration number into the form on this page. If the reg number is unavailable, you can also use the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).
Step 2: Start Search
Click on the “Search” button to initiate the search. Review the vehicle’s details for a free car check, including the year, make, model, engine, colour and more.
Step 3: Get the Detailed Car Check Report
Pay the necessary fee to generate and download the vehicle check report. View or print the vehicle history report in PDF for offline viewing.
Why You Need to Get a Car Check in the UK?
If you’re in the market for a used car, ensure you don’t buy blind; use our car check tool to verify if a vehicle has hidden records. Here’s why you need to get a car reg check before finalizing the deal:
Avoid Buying a Stolen Vehicle
A car check helps ensure the vehicle isn’t stolen. This protects you from losing money, police involvement, or legal problems. You gain peace of mind knowing the car is legally safe to own.
Prevent Hidden Costs
By checking for outstanding finance, scrapped records, or insurance write-offs, you avoid hidden debts and risks. A car check protects your money and prevents you from unknowingly buying into financial headaches later.
Spot Mileage Fraud
Mileage tampering is common in used cars. A car check highlights discrepancies between recorded and claimed mileage, helping you avoid overpaying for a car that may have been misrepresented by the seller.
Confirm Clean History
Checking ownership, MOT history, and road tax records confirms if the car is roadworthy and well-maintained. This ensures you’re not buying a vehicle with hidden problems or suspicious gaps.
Protect Resale Value
A car check helps confirm the vehicle’s history is clear, making resale easier. Buyers prefer cars with trustworthy records, so you benefit from a higher resale value and smoother future transactions.
Buy with Confidence
Knowing the car’s complete history erases doubt, builds trust in your purchase, and avoids surprises. A car reg check gives you confidence that you’re making a smart, safe, and reliable investment.
Why Choose Smart Car Check to Check Vehicle History in the UK
When buying a used car, you need information you can trust. Smart Car Check offers accurate, detailed reports that help you make smarter, safer, and more confident decisions before spending your money.
Trusted and Accurate Data
Vehicle check data is retrieved from reliable sources like DVLA, police, and finance companies, ensuring your report is 100% accurate.
Comprehensive Database
Our database covers over 42 million licensed vehicles in the UK, checking against over 80 records to reveal hidden problems competitors might miss.
Free Vehicle Specifications
Instantly access manufacturer specifications like engine size, trim, and features for free. Confirm the car matches the seller’s description.
Instant Report Generation
Get your car check report in seconds, with a downloadable PDF report you can save, share, or print anytime.
Check MOT and Tax Status for Free
Instantly check if the car is taxed and MOT valid, avoiding fines and ensuring road legality.
Live Chat Support 24/7
Our support team is available round the clock to answer questions and guide you through our vehicle check process.
Get VIN Decoders for Popular Makes in the UK
Our VIN decoder is designed to recognise and read all UK VIN numbers, providing support for various car makes and models. Some of the popular car makes include:
Join Our Many Satisfied Customers
Thousands of UK car buyers trust our vehicle checks to avoid scams and buy with confidence.
Anshid Valliayakkattil
Yesterday, I went to their website and downloaded the app to confirm my REG. After that, Ben called me. He provided outstanding customer service! Prompt reply along with an extensive report. In terms of reporting, he is undoubtedly a pro. He carefully addressed inquiries and provided clarifications regarding the report. 'THE VERY BEST' encounter to be had thus far! Look no farther if you're searching for excellent service!
Mark
Great service, I got exactly what I needed the motorcycle reg plate and more useful information buy the premium report it is worth it, this was the first time I used the motorcycle vin check service and went through on the online chat which was very useful and reassured me I would get the information I needed to a bit of time but worth it. Richard on the line chat guy was very professional and helpful a big thanks to you & your company. Happy customer, Regards Mark
Aaron Slack
When I was selling a vehicle I had multiple people ask for documentation to show we had a clean title and for the window sticker, which unfortunately we no longer had. Smart Car Check helped us get both so we can show potential buyers. Recommended.
Joekwak Kwakwa
Wow! I just had the most impressive customer service experience. From the moment I reached out, the team was responsive, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful. They went above and beyond to resolve my issue, keeping me informed every step of the way. The rep I worked with was amazing.
Get our Smart Car Check App
Looking for the best car history check in the UK? Download the Smart Car Check App today. With just a registration number, you can instantly detect hidden history, past problems, or issues the seller won’t mention. Make smarter, safer decisions before buying any vehicle.
Get a car Check for FREE
Enter the registration number below for a free car check. Buying a used car? Upgrade to our affordable full car check to reveal hidden records like insurance write-off, stolen, finance, and more
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Check
What is a Reg Checker?
A reg checker is a car registration check tool that uses the registration number to reveal car details and history. It helps confirm DVLA car check information like MOT status, tax, and important car history check records.
What’s the difference between a reg check and a number plate check?
Both terms mean the same. A car reg check or number plate check lets you check car details through DVLA car check records, including MOT history, car tax, and vehicle specifications.
Does the free check include car tax status?
Yes, our free car check includes a car MOT check and tax status. With our car tax check tool, you’ll instantly see if the vehicle is taxed and legal for UK roads.
Can you get information about a car's previous owners online with a free vehicle check?
A free car history check won’t show personal details, but it can reveal keeper counts and registration dates. You can use our tool to check a car’s previous owners to verify the ownership history and other records like stolen records, mileage discrepancy, outstanding finance, and more.
Are there any risks of buying an imported vehicle?
Yes, imported cars may cost more for insurance, tax, or parts. A car check helps identify imported and exported cars, reveal hidden risks, and provide clarity before you buy.
Is it worth paying for a car check?
Yes, paying for a car history check offers complete details on finance, theft, MOT, and ownership. A full car check UK protects you against hidden problems and costly mistakes.
Can I verify a car's registration number is genuine?
Yes, simply use our instant car check tool to match the registration number against official records, helping you confirm the number plate is genuine. You will also access the complete car history to check for theft, outstanding finance, insurance write-off and more.
Can I check if a car is stolen?
Yes, you can get a stolen vehicle check using our car check tool. It reveals stolen car records instantly by searching police databases to provide any reported thefts. This helps avoid having issues with the police and losing your money and the car.
Can I check someone else's car with this tool?
Yes, you can check your car or someone else’s using the reg number. A vehicle check UK report provides past records and registration details, but never discloses private owner information (name or address) to protect privacy.
What does 'Vehicle Enquiry' actually mean?
A vehicle enquiry means running a car reg check to confirm DVLA details. It’s another way to describe running a car check by registration number in the UK
Does your check include car finance data?
Yes, our full car check includes outstanding finance records, instantly showing if a finance company still owns the vehicle, helping you avoid repossession risks.
What if the reg check shows a problem?
If a car reg check shows issues like finance, theft, or mileage fraud, you can investigate further or walk away from the purchase. You should always get a full car check to protect yourself from buying risky vehicles.
Is our car check service reliable and accurate?
Yes, our car check uses trusted databases like the DVLA and MIAFTR databases. Each car checked provides you with accurate vehicle details before committing to buy.
Can you find out who previously owned a car?
No, privacy laws stop personal details from being shared. However, our car check helps show the number of keepers, registration dates, date of last update (V5C), Plate change history and more.
What is the best car history check website in the UK?
Smart Car Check is one of the top-rated car history check websites in the UK. Our car check provides detailed DVLA records, MOT history, finance, insurance write-off, tax, and more.
Can I get a free VIN Check UK?
Yes, you can run a free VIN check to view and confirm car specs and details like the year, make, model, engine, transmission, trim, colour and more. For a full car history check, including finance or stolen status, we recommend you use our paid car check service.
What to check when buying a used car?
Before buying a used car, check its history and MOT records. Get a mechanic to inspect it, test drive for issues, and verify the V5C matches. Look for rust, tyre wear, and ensure it’s ULEZ compliant to avoid costly surprises later
How to check if a car has been in an accident?
To check if a car has been in an accident in the UK, use our car check tool to reveal any write-off records from insurers. This helps you check the car damage history and avoid buying unsafe or poorly repaired vehicles.
