We show you how to avoid potential pitfalls by getting a vehicle check.

Why get a vehicle check?

The check will provide you with a large amount of information on the car, including:

1. Recorded damages
Details of previous accidents and damages to the vehicle will be shown.

2. Outstanding finance
Checks are made with the DVLA to see if there’s any outstanding finance against the car, for example a loan. This should be settled by the car’s owner before you buy.

3. If the vehicle is stolen
Data from the Police National Computer is checked to see if the vehicle has been taken without the owner’s consent.

4. If the vehicle has been written off
Write-offs are placed into four categories – A, B, C and D – vehicles which fall into A and B categories are considered beyond repair and should never reappear on the road. 

However, C and D vehicles can be made roadworthy if they pass a Thatcham-approved structural examination, but their repairs may cost more than the vehicle itself.

5. Plate transfers
This section tells you if the vehicle’s had its registration plate changed legitimately through the DVLA.

6. Mileage discrepancies
This will check for any changes made to the odometer, which measures the vehicle’s total mileage.

7. Vehicle features
Detailed car specifications will be listed – if they’re different from the car you’re being sold, walk away from the deal.

8. The risk alerts database
A search through this database will let you know if the vehicle is at high risk of theft or fraud.

For frequently asked questions, visit our vehicle check FAQs page.
You can also read our ten reasons to get a vehicle check feature.

How to get a vehicle check

It’s simple to test the validity and history of a vehicle. You can phone 0844 470 4924 or visit the link below to get a check carried out with Auto Trader:

Auto Trader vehicle check

All you have to do is input the vehicle’s registration number and have payment ready. You can check the history of cars, bikes, vans and light commercial vehicles (LCVs).

If the vehicle is listed as written off, scrapped, stolen or on a risk alerts database, you’ll get your next vehicle check for FREE.

What will my test look like?

You’ll receive a digital report file in an email, summarising the vehicle’s information, which can be printed off for future reference and safekeeping.

You can view a mock up of the vehicle report to see what exactly you’ll get.

If ordering by phone, you can ask for a printed report to be posted to you.

What’s next?

Follow these steps:

• The vehicle should have a new style V5C document. Call Customer Services on 0845 345 7002 if it’s an old style V5.

• The vehicle must have a valid current MOT certificate if it’s more than three years old.

• Check all occurrences of the Vehicle Insurance Number (VIN) match the VIN stated on the V5C (the vehicle’s handbook should tell you where to look).

• When buying privately you should visit the seller at their address and request proof of identity (e.g. driving license or a recent bill).

• Ask for a receipt for the transaction – this should state:
1. The vendor’s details
2. The vehicle details, including mileage
3. The date of the transaction
4. The price paid

• When buying from a dealer you should always visit the premises. Insist on a full VAT receipt and ensure it includes the details listed above.

• Check the value of the vehicle before buying – if it varies significantly from what you’d expect to pay, ask why.

Auto Trader links