Buying a used car can be a great way to save money, but only if you know exactly what you are getting. A vehicle may look spotless on the outside, but that does not always tell the full story. A proper history check can reveal hidden issues, help you avoid scams, and give you the confidence that your investment is sound.
Whether you are buying from a dealership or privately, taking the time to do your research is one of the smartest things you can do before committing to a purchase. This step-by-step guide explains everything you need to check before buying a used car so that you can make an informed decision.
Why Checking a Car’s History Matters
A car’s history tells you more than just where it has been. It can reveal whether the vehicle has been stolen, written off, clocked, or subject to outstanding finance. It can also help you spot irregularities in mileage or maintenance, which might point to bigger problems down the road.
Many buyers skip this step, especially if the car looks clean and the price seems fair. Unfortunately, some sellers rely on that. A quick inspection and a bit of research can protect you from unnecessary costs later.
Step 1: Get the Vehicle Registration Number (VRM)
Everything starts with the vehicle’s registration number. This is the key piece of information you need to carry out most checks. You can find it on the number plate, and the seller should be happy to provide it if the sale is genuine.
Once you have the VRM, you can access a wide range of online resources and databases that provide free or paid information about the vehicle’s background.
Step 2: Check the MOT History
The MOT history is one of the easiest and most valuable checks you can do. It is free to access through the official DVLA website. By entering the registration number, you can see the car’s entire MOT record, including:
- Pass and fail result
- Advisory notes
- Recorded mileage at each test
- The dates of previous tests
This can help you spot patterns such as repeated failures on the same issue or sudden drops in recorded mileage, which may indicate tampering. It can also give you a sense of how well the car has been maintained over the years.
Step 3: Verify Mileage
Mileage is a key factor in both price and reliability. Some sellers try to manipulate odometer readings to make a car appear less used.
Cross-check the mileage shown on the car with the figures recorded in MOT tests and service history documents. Consistent records over time are a good sign. Gaps or sudden changes should raise questions.
A professional vehicle history report can also flag any mileage discrepancies reported to insurance companies or finance providers.
Step 4: Check for Outstanding Finance
If a car is still on finance, the legal owner is usually the finance company, not the person selling it. If you buy a car with outstanding finance, you may be at risk of losing it if the finance is not settled correctly.
A vehicle history check can reveal if there is any finance secured against the car. If you are buying from a dealership, they should handle this process as part of the sale. Private buyers should be extra careful and always confirm that any finance is fully cleared before completing the purchase.
Step 5: Look for Insurance Write-Off Records
Some used cars have been declared insurance write-offs in the past. There are different categories of write-off, ranging from cars that can be safely repaired to those that should never return to the road.
A Cat N or Cat S vehicle may be repaired and returned to use, but its value and insurance costs may be affected. Cat A or Cat B vehicles should not be on the road at all.
Knowing a vehicle’s insurance history helps you make a fair decision and understand any potential future issues with resale or insurance premiums.
Step 6: Confirm It Is Not Stolen
Buying a stolen car can lead to serious legal problems. Even if you purchased it in good faith, the vehicle can be seized and returned to its rightful owner.
A comprehensive vehicle check will reveal whether the car is listed as stolen. This is one of the most important steps for private buyers, as stolen vehicles occasionally appear in online marketplaces.
Step 7: Verify the Number of Previous Owners
The number of previous owners can tell you a lot about a car’s history. A vehicle with frequent ownership changes may have underlying problems, while a car owned by one person for several years often indicates more consistent care.
This information is listed on the logbook (V5C). Make sure the number of owners matches what the seller claims.
Step 8: Inspect the V5C Logbook
The V5C logbook is the official registration document for the vehicle. It should display the current keeper’s name and address, as well as the car’s details such as VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), make, model and engine size.
When inspecting the logbook:
- Check that the VIN matches the number on the vehicles
- Look for signs of tampering
- Make sure the seller’s details match the logbook
Never buy a car without a proper logbook unless you have verified through DVLA that it is a legitimate replacement document.
Step 9: Review Service History and Receipts
A full service history gives valuable insight into how well the car has been looked after. Ideally, you want to see evidence of regular servicing at recommended intervals. This might include:
- Stamps in a service book
- Printed service records
- Invoices for maintenance or repairs
Service history also helps confirm mileage and gives clues about future maintenance costs. A car with clear, consistent records is usually a safer investment than one with gaps or missing documentation.
Step 10: Check for Recalls and Manufacturer Alerts
Sometimes manufacturers issue recalls to fix known issues. Not all recalls are dangerous, but ignoring them can lead to expensive repairs later.
You can check if a car has any outstanding recalls using the DVLA website or the manufacturer’s own system. If recalls exist, ask whether they have been completed. Dealers are usually required to resolve recalls before selling a car, but it is wise to confirm.
Step 11: Check for Modifications
Some used cars have been modified by previous owners. Modifications can range from performance upgrades and body kits to remapped engines or suspension changes.
While not all modifications are a problem, they can affect insurance, reliability and resale value. Check whether any modifications have been declared to insurers. Undeclared modifications can cause issues later if you make a claim.
Step 12: Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
The VIN is a unique code assigned to every vehicle. It appears in several places, such as under the bonnet, at the base of the windscreen and inside the door frame. It should match the number listed on the V5C logbook.
If the numbers do not match, or if there are signs of tampering, walk away from the sale. This could indicate stolen or cloned vehicles.
Step 13: Look at MOT Advisory Patterns
Many buyers focus only on MOT passes and fails, but advisory notes are just as important. If the same advisory appears multiple years in a row, it might suggest neglected maintenance.
A single advisory does not necessarily mean the car is a bad choice, but repeated issues should be investigated further. They may give you leverage to negotiate on price or help you decide to look elsewhere.
Step 14: Consider a Paid Vehicle History Check
While many checks are free, paid history reports from reputable providers can offer a more complete picture. These reports often include information on:
- Outstanding finance
- Write-off status
- Stolen vehicle reports
- Mileage discrepancies
- Import or export history
A small upfront cost can save thousands later by preventing you from buying a problematic vehicle.
Step 15: Use Reputable Dealers
One of the simplest ways to reduce risk is to buy from a trusted dealership. Reputable dealers carry out their own checks before listing vehicles for sale. They also offer consumer protection that you do not get with private sellers.
At Stebbings, all vehicles undergo thorough inspections and history checks. This includes MOT history, mileage verification and outstanding finance checks. Our customers know exactly what they are buying, and every vehicle is prepared to a high standard.
Step 16: Combine History Checks with a Physical Inspection
A paper trail is only part of the picture. Always pair history checks with a careful in-person inspection or a professional inspection if you are not confident.
Check for bodywork damage, mismatched paintwork, uneven tyre wear and signs of poor repairs. Take the car for a test drive and pay attention to how it accelerates, brakes and handles. A clean history should be matched by a car that feels right on the road.
Step 17: Trust Your Instincts
Finally, trust your instincts. If something does not add up or a deal seems too good to be true, step back and reassess. Buying a used car should feel transparent and straightforward. A seller who avoids answering questions or hesitates to provide documentation should be treated with caution.
Why These Checks Matter
Skipping history checks can expose you to significant financial risk. You could end up with a car that has hidden damage, is still on finance or has legal complications. By following a structured process, you reduce the chance of unpleasant surprises and increase your bargaining power as a buyer.
Knowing the facts gives you confidence and helps you focus on finding the right car rather than worrying about what might be wrong with it.
Final Thoughts
Buying a used car is easier and safer when you know how to check its history. From MOT records and mileage to stolen vehicle checks and VIN verification, each step adds a layer of protection.
While private buyers can carry out these checks themselves, working with a trusted dealership like Stebbings can make the process even simpler. Every vehicle we sell is checked and prepared to high standards, so you can drive away with complete confidence.
To browse our current stock or speak with one of our experts, visit Stebbings Used Carstoday.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is checking a used car’s history important?
A history check can reveal if the car has been stolen, written off or is still under finance. It helps protect you from legal or financial problems after the purchase.
2. How can I check MOT history for free?
You can check MOT history on the official DVLA website by entering the vehicle registration number. It shows test results, advisories and recorded mileage.
3. What is a Cat S or Cat N write-off?
Cat S and Cat N vehicles have been written off but can be repaired and returned to the road. Cat A and Cat B vehicles cannot legally be driven.
4. Do I need to pay for a vehicle history check?
Many checks are free, but paid checks provide more detailed information, including finance and theft records. They offer extra peace of mind for a small cost.
5. Can I rely on a dealer’s checks alone?
Reputable dealers perform thorough checks, but it is still wise to do your own research. This ensures you fully understand the vehicle’s background before committing.
