How to check car history

Knowing how to check a car's history will give you the facts you need to purchase a used car with confidence. To check the history of your prospective car properly you need to carry out a car data check. Our in depth history checks for your vehicle will provide information on areas such as whether the car is stolen, a write-off or if it has had different number plates in the past.

Once RAC have carried out your vehicle history check with data from HPI, a report is immediately delivered on screen and a PDF of the results are sent to you via email. This email should be saved, as you will need the reference number to update your next check at some point in the future.

How to check car history with the RAC Vehicle History Check

The RAC Vehicle History car check uses information from a variety of data sources. These respected sources include the DVLA, Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders (SMMT), the Police, The Association of British Insurers, and numerous finance companies.

Using these trusted sources enables our data check to provide accurate information on a number of critical areas. One of them is the Vehicle Title. Through Vehicle Registration Mark, the check will identify outstanding finances, such as existing loans and payments. With current owners liable for outstanding payments on their newly bought car, ensuring you don’t inherit any outstanding debts with a simple check is essential. Whether the car has any current police interest is also checked. Purchasing a vehicle involved in criminality not only loses you your car, it could also entangle you in a lot of legal wrangling in trying to clear your name.

Another important item is Vehicle Description. With the Vehicle Registration Mark (VRM), the RAC Vehicle History Check car data check will confirm the date of manufacture and date of first registration in the UK. Moreover, it will also include information on the number of registered previous keepers and the date of the last keeper change is provided. If the car has undergone one or more registration plate changes, you will be advised of each change and the date it was applied. Additionally, each previous plate will be checked in the same rigorous way as described above. If you want to perform a free car check, know that these only provide you with basic historical information so are not comprehensive enough to ensure that you buy your next car confidently.

Once a data check has been submitted and the report comes in, if any areas are flagged you will receive an explanation as to exactly what this area means. If there are any minor irregularities, you are advised to contact the seller for further details. For more serious irregularities, you are advised not to purchase the car, but to contact the appropriate authorities.

Getting an RAC Vehicle History Check is quick and easy to do online.

Generate a Buyers Report in 3 simple steps:

• Input the vehicle registration (of the car you want to check the history for)
• Enter your email address (so we can send you a copy of your report)
• Complete payment details

Your online report will be generated on-screen.

To prepare a Sellers Report:

Follow the same instructions above. You'll also need your V5C document to hand (so that we can retrieve your vehicle MOT history) and details of any servicing you've carried out on the car.

Read RAC Vehicle History Check terms and conditions.

We are cheaper than a HPI check

Our vehicle history check is powered by HPI, this is an invaluable service that allows used car buyers to find out more about a car’s history before they commit to a purchase. Our car check consists of multitudes of information regarding your vehicle, providing peace of mind and helps to prevent any costly repercussions further down the line.

What does our car check reveal?

Outstanding finance

Nearly 25% of vehicles that undergo our car check have outstanding finance. So you wouldn’t be the legal owner of the vehicle (the finance company would be), but you could still be liable for the debt. The finance company would also have the right to repossess the car, leaving you out of pocket and without a car.

Stolen

Every day, nearly 30 cars are identified as stolen and added to the Police National Computer. If your vehicle is one of them, the police have every right to seize it.

Written-off

4% of vehicles that undergo our car check have been written off as a result of damage or theft. These vehicles may have been repaired, but you need to see proof that they were repaired reliably and are now safe to drive.

Stolen V5 document check

If the V5 document accompanying a vehicle is part of a stolen batch, you can’t trust the legitimacy of the vehicle.

Vehicle Identity

A car check will confirm with the DVLA the make, model, door plan, vehicle's current colour & prior colour, transmission and engine size, as well as how many times it has changed hands. You need to ensure that the latter in particular matches the seller’s story.

Plate transfer

20% of cars that have had a vehicle check have had at least one plate change. Usually there is nothing to worry about, but a change of plates can be used to hide a car's past, so it’s worth asking questions about it.

Number plate and VIN/chassis numbers

A car check will tell you whether the VRM and VIN correspond to DVLA records. If they don't, there could be a number of problems with the vehicle.

What doesn't show up on our car check?

There are some things that our car check doesn't disclose. These include information on current or previous owners, but this wouldn’t reveal much about a vehicle’s safety and legitimacy anyway. The checks also won’t tell you about every accident a vehicle has been in or its service history, so these will be points to bring up when you view the car.

RAC Vehicle History Check

Getting an RAC Vehicle History Check vehicle check is quick to do online – just provide a few details about the car you plan to buy.

Read RAC Vehicle History Check terms and conditions.

How to avoid buying a car with outstanding finance

Secure your used car purchase by avoiding outstanding finance with our reliable history checker. Don't fall victim to potential scams and issues that can come with purchasing a used car. Conduct a thorough inspection to ensure your safety and the legality of the vehicle. Look out for dangerous faults, theft records, and unpaid finance, and let us guide you with essential information on how to identify outstanding finance and what to do if you've unknowingly purchased a car with unpaid debts.

RAC has put together an insightful article, listing everything you need to know in order to not get caught in the trap of outstanding finance on previously owned vehicles.

What is outstanding finance?

Outstanding finance is a common issue that many car buyers encounter when purchasing a used vehicle. It occurs when the previous owner still has finance to pay on the car, but sells it anyway. This means that the car technically still belongs to the finance company until the debt is fully paid off.

Unfortunately, some unscrupulous sellers choose to fraudulently sell the car to the next person without declaring the outstanding finance in any records or communications. This can leave the unsuspecting buyer with a nasty surprise down the line, as they could end up having the car repossessed or facing other legal consequences.

To avoid falling victim to outstanding finance, it's important to do your due diligence before buying a used car. This includes checking the car's history using tools such as a HPI Check or the DVLA's online service, which can reveal any outstanding finance or other issues with the car's past.

Additionally, it's always a good idea to ask the seller directly if there is any outstanding finance on the car, and to get this in writing if possible. If you're unsure about anything, don't be afraid to seek professional advice from a qualified mechanic or legal expert.

By taking these steps, you can help ensure that you're not caught out by outstanding finance when buying a used car, and can enjoy your new ride with peace of mind.

How to tell if there is outstanding finance on a car?

Enhance your chances of buying a reliable used car by conducting an outstanding finance check on the vehicle. As well as discovering any outstanding finance. This check can reveal critical information such as previous accidents, whether it has been stolen and insight into past MOT's

When purchasing a used car from a dealership, you can inquire whether they have already conducted outstanding finance checks. For peace of mind, we recommend performing your own check using our RAC Vehicle History Check. Our comprehensive check provides an extensive vehicle history report, which can help you avoid purchasing a car with outstanding finance obligations or other potential issues.

What to do if there is outstanding finance on a car

• If you discover outstanding finance and you have not yet purchased the car, you should check with the listed finance company to understand whether the account has been settled or if payments are due. If money is still owed you should ask the owner to settle the account before continuing with the sale.

• If you discover that there is outstanding finance owed after buying the car, it will be more difficult to prove you have a legal right to owning the vehicle. You will have to convince the finance company you are an ‘innocent buyer’ which can be difficult. If unsuccessful, they can take back the car.

Getting a car check is quick to do online with the RAC Vehicle History Check - just provide a few details about the car you plan to buy.

What to look for when buying a used car

RAC offers information and tips on what to look for when buying a used car. There are many things to check internally and externally when buying a used car, as well as its history and data. This can be done using RAC vehicle history checks. Read below for what to look for when purchasing a used vehicle.

Car Bonnet Checks

• Check VIN matches the V5C document.
• Check under the car for oil, water or any fluid that could be leaking.
• Check with a dipstick, or the electronic oil check on some cars, whether the engine oil needs topping up or changing to get a gage for the level of care the current owner has for the car.
• Check whether the top of the engine or oil cap has a white cream seeping from it. This can indicate serious engine damage.
• Check car fluids like brake fluid and engine coolants are topped up.
• Check that there is no rust around the battery terminals.

External Car Checks

• Check the paint work. It should be the same throughout the car. If it is not consistent, that could suggest a re-spray trying to cover damage or rust.
• Check the panels. If they are not the same size, this could suggest the car was involved in a crash.
• Check all the doors, windows and boot open and shut properly.
• Check the suspension by leaning on the corners of each car and then checking on release that the car returns to its original height.
• Check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) for any alterations. This metal strip can be found in the engine compartment and somewhere else on the car, so you might need to hunt around for it. On some modern cars, it’s also shown on the windscreen. If it doesn't match the V5C in all locations, or looks like it has been tampered with, it’s worth investigating further.
• Check the tread of the tyres and spare tyre if the car has one. The legal tread depth is 1.6mm across the tyre width.
• Check the tyre wear is even. Uneven wear can suggest the tracking is not aligned and that the car could have been in an accident.

Internal Car Checks

• Check the car's mileage matches the car’s documents.
• Check that the car's upholstery reflects the history of the car. Extensive wear could suggest the car is older than advertised.
• Check the electronics work, including the widows, seats, sunroof and air con.
• Check whether there is damage around the steering column and ignition. Tampering and damage could suggest the vehicle may have been stolen.
• Check if the car has been in a crash by inspecting the seatbelts, passenger dashboard and steering wheel for damage.

Car Paperwork Checks

• Inspect the car at the seller's home address to ensure it matches the one on the V5C document.
• Check for the V5C, service history and MOT certificate to establish whether the car has recurring issues.
• Check the V5C to see whether the mileage has increased at normal rate.
• Only check the original paper. Do not accept copies.

Getting an RAC Vehicle History Check is quick and easy to do online.

Generate a Buyers Report in 3 simple steps:

• Input the vehicle registration (of the car you want to check the history for)
• Enter your email address (so we can send you a copy of your report)
• Complete payment details

Your online report will be generated on-screen.

To prepare a Sellers Report:

• Follow the same instructions above.
• You'll also need your V5C document to hand (so that we can retrieve your vehicle MOT history) and details of any servicing you've carried out on the car.

Free car check

There are several sources that can help identify part of a car’s history for free but these checks are not as comprehensive as a paid product. Free car checks will not identify whether a car has been stolen, written off or has existing finance which could result in the car being seized from you.

The RAC Vehicle History Check is the most complete check on the market from a brand you can trust and is the best way to have all the information you need when buying a car in one place, saving you time and effort using free sources online.

Free car history tools

If you want to research a car online for free then the following resources can be useful when looking to purchase a car.

How can I check a car's history for free?

Discovering a car's history is crucial when buying a vehicle, and while free sources can provide some information, they may not be as thorough as a paid product. Without a comprehensive car history check, you may not know if the car you're considering has a hidden past, such as being stolen, written off, or has outstanding finance. To ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision, it's essential to invest in a trusted vehicle history check. The RAC Vehicle History Check is the most complete option on the market, providing a comprehensive report on a car's past that you can rely on. With all the essential information in one place, you can save time and effort compared to using free sources online. Choose the RAC Vehicle History Check for peace of mind and a hassle-free car buying experience.

Vehicle MOT check

Discover the MOT history of any UK vehicle with the Gov.uk website free MOT history check service. Simply enter the registration number on the Gov.uk website to instantly find out if the car has a valid and up-to-date MOT certificate. In addition, the service provides a complete MOT history report, allowing you to view any previous faults or advisories. Plus, you can check for outstanding recalls that might impact your purchasing decision. Book an MOT online today with RAC at one of our local approved garages.

Vehicle Insurance check

askMID is an online service that can be used to check if a vehicle is currently insured. The MID (Motor Insurance Database) contains all the vehicles in the UK as well as their insurance status or alternatively whether a vehicle has been declared “off the road”. Entering the car registration into the free askMID search will either show that a vehicle is insured or more importantly when looking to purchase a car, if it has been declared “off the road” and for how long.

Car Valuation

To find out whether the price of the car you are looking to purchase is priced accordingly (to make certain that you are not paying over the market estimate) there are many services available that will value a car for free. One of these is the car valuation service on RAC Cars.

Running costs and reliability

If you're in the market for a new car, it's essential to do your research on the vehicle's reliability and running costs to ensure you're making an informed decision. Luckily, there are plenty of online resources available, such as vehicle owner's forums, that can give you a better idea of what it's like to live with a particular car. When it comes to determining running costs, things can get a bit more complicated. While the manufacturer will provide data like average MPG, real-world driving conditions can cause significant variations. To get a more accurate estimate, consider using a RAC Vehicle History Check. This comprehensive report includes common breakdown reasons and MOT failures for the make and model you're interested in. Additionally, it provides an estimated fuel cost, so you can budget accordingly for owning and running the car.

RAC Recommends

With so many sources of information available when looking to purchase a car, we decided to dramatically reduce the risk for car buyers by creating our own RAC Vehicle History Check which includes checks not freely available to the public. We are so confident in our vehicle check that we guarantee the data in them up to £30,000 when purchasing a full vehicle check. While the RAC Vehicle History check is a paid for service, it is also the most comprehensive and could save you from a car with a hidden past.

More information to help you buy

Providing you have a reasonable cause, it is possible to request information on a vehicle's registered keeper by contacting the DVLA, though this is available for a small fee. This also enables you to trace vehicle owners suspected of insurance fraud. You can also access a wealth of helpful information online to help you buy a used car safely. For guidance on buying and selling used cars, the RAC have issued a buying and selling guide.

What is Clocking?

Clocking, also known as mileage fraud, refers to the practice of reducing a vehicle's recorded mileage to increase its apparent value. Although some may believe that the deceitful act of clocking has become obsolete, the reality is that the number of vehicles with manipulated mileage has surged by 25% in recent years.

Discover everything you need to know about car clocking, including what it is and how your car can be affected by it. Trust RAC to help you make informed decisions about your car's maintenance and history.

Choose RAC for your cars mileage check. Offering some insightful and important facts regarding your mileage check, RAC provides a comprehensive list of things to look out for when checking your car's data, ranging from what clocking is, to how your car can be clocked, and more.

Looking for a reliable mileage check for your car? RAC has got you covered. Our comprehensive mileage check provides you with valuable insights and important information to keep in mind when examining your car's data.

What is Digital Clocking?

Clocking used to involve manually winding back a car's odometer to lower its mileage, but advancements in digital technology have made this illegal practice even easier. Today, there are countless "mileage correction" companies offering to alter a car's mileage without demanding documentation to verify the correct mileage. While some of these companies operate legally, it becomes a deceptive and unlawful act when the car owner sells the vehicle without disclosing the correction. In fact, this practice is recognised as a "Misleading Action" under The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008.

Dangers of Buying Clocked Cars

When purchasing a car, having an accurate history for that vehicle doesn't just ensure you're buying a car for the right price, it also ensures you’re buying a safe vehicle. To ensure a car is safe, regular maintenance checks are carried out once every 12,000 miles, or every year, to prevent serious damage or faults from occurring. If a car’s mileage is not accurate this could mean you are buying a car that may have parts that need replacing. For example, timing belts should be changed every 60,000 miles. However, if you buy a car that needs a new belt but the odometer only shows 40,000 miles, you could then be driving for another 20,000 miles unaware that at any time that belt could snap.

Who Clocks Cars?

Clocking is on the rise among ordinary car owners, who can easily buy clocking technology online for just a few hundred pounds. By rolling back the mileage of their cars, owners can sell them for significantly higher prices, often tens of thousands of pounds more than they could otherwise. This practice has spawned a new industry of online businesses offering clocking services. Although legislation to outlaw clocking services will take effect on 20th May 2018, concerned car buyers can protect themselves by checking a vehicle's history with an RAC Vehicle History Check.

Read RAC Vehicle History Check terms and conditions.

Vehicle tax check

If you're planning to buy a new car, it's crucial to know how the car tax is applied to your vehicle. Fortunately, you can easily check the amount of tax you'll need to pay by using the RAC's comprehensive vehicle tax check service. This will provide you with all the important details you need to make an informed decision when purchasing a car.

What are the road tax bands in the UK?

In the UK, vehicle tax bands are determined by the amount of CO2 emissions produced by the vehicle. There are currently 13 bands, ranging from A (for vehicles with the lowest emissions) to M (for vehicles with the highest emissions). The tax rates for each band depend on whether the vehicle is petrol or diesel, its fuel efficiency, and its list price.

• Cars registered prior to March 1st, 2001, are taxed according to the engine size.
• Those registered after March 1st, 2001, are taxed according to their fuel type and CO2 emissions.
• The bands are given a letter ranging from A to M. Those in band A emit the lowest amount of CO2 and are currently exempt from tax fees.
• Alternative-fuel vehicles that do not run purely on diesel or petrol, such as hybrids, plug-in hybrids and LPG cars, have a reduced tax band rating.

The car ta system recently underwent major changes, so it might be worth looking at these changes before choosing your next model.

Vehicle tax bands explained

Vehicle tax bands are calculated on either engine size or fuel type and carbon dioxide emissions, depending when the car was registered.

• Cars registered prior to March 1st, 2001, are taxed according to the engine size.
• Those registered after March 1st, 2001, are taxed according to their fuel type and CO2 emissions.
• The bands are given a letter ranging from A to M. Those in band A emit the lowest amount of CO2 and are currently exempt from tax fees.
• Alternative-fuel vehicles that do not run purely on diesel or petrol, such as hybrids, plug-in hybrids and LPG cars, have a reduced tax band rating.

The car tax system recently underwent major changes, so it might be worth looking at these changes before choosing your next model.

What vehicles are tax exempt?

Vehicles that are tax exempt include:

• Vehicles used for disabilities.. You can claim disability exemption when you apply for your vehicle tax. An exemption can be removed later if the vehicle is no longer used by a disabled person.
• Vehicles (not ambulances) that are used by organisations to provide transport for disabled people.
• Mobility scooters, invalid carriages and powered wheelchairs are exempt provided they have a maximum speed of 8 MPH and are fitted with a device limiting the speed on footpaths to 4 MPH.
• Vehicles made prior to January 1st, 1976.
• Electric vehicles.
• Vehicles used for agricultural, horticultural and forestry work purposes, including tractors and light agricultural vehicles used off-road.

Even if a vehicle is exempt from road tax it may still be necessary to apply for this exemption. Visit Gov.uk to check if your vehicle qualifies for tax exemption.

Declaring a vehicle as SORN

If a car is going to be taken off the road and you want to stop taxing and insuring it, then it must be registered as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notice). The vehicle must be kept in a garage, on a drive or on private land rather than left on a public road. To register a car as SORN, use the GOV.UK website and start the process here.

• Your vehicle is not taxed.
• Your vehicle is not insured (even for a very short time).
• You want to scrap the vehicle and break it up for spare parts.
• You buy a vehicle that is SORN-registered and want to keep it that way. A SORN cannot be transferred from a previous owner.

If you purchase a vehicle that has been SORN-registered, you will be responsible for taxing and insuring it as soon as you take ownership.

How to Renew Road Tax

Renewing your road tax is quite straightforward. If you have a reminder letter (V11), a V5C (logbook), your new keeper supplement if you’ve just purchased the car or a ‘last chance’ warning letter, then it can be completed online at GOV.UK

Alternatively you can call 0300 123 4321, or visit a post office that deals with vehicle tax, remembering to take along all your documentation.

If you want to find out more about a car’s history, along with a comprehensive list of safety and security checks before buying a used car, then you should consider the RAC Vehicle History Check.

Accessing DVLA information

In the dynamic world of car buying, staying informed is crucial to making well-informed decisions. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) provides a wealth of information that can be instrumental in ensuring the legitimacy and history of a vehicle. This article delves into the significance of DVLA car data and guides you through the process of accessing and utilising this valuable resource for making informed car purchases.

The DVLA, a government agency in the United Kingdom, is responsible for maintaining databases related to drivers and vehicles. Accessing DVLA data is pivotal for potential car buyers as it provides comprehensive information about a vehicle's history, ownership, and legal standing. By leveraging DVLA data, individuals can mitigate the risks associated with purchasing a used car, such as undisclosed accidents, outstanding fines, or discrepancies in ownership records.

DVLA Vehicle Check

Performing a DVLA vehicle check is a fundamental step in the car buying process. This check allows you to verify the essential details of a vehicle and ensures that the information provided by the seller aligns with the official records. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to perform a DVLA vehicle check:

Gather Necessary Information:

Before initiating the DVLA vehicle check, collect essential details about the vehicle, including its registration number (license plate). This information is crucial for accessing the specific records associated with the vehicle.

Visit the DVLA Website:

Navigate to the official DVLA website or use trusted online platforms that provide DVLA vehicle check services. The official website is a secure and reliable source for accessing accurate and up-to-date information.

Enter Vehicle Registration Number

On the DVLA website or the chosen online platform, enter the vehicle's registration number into the designated search bar. This step initiates the process of retrieving the relevant information associated with the specified vehicle.

Review Vehicle Details:

The DVLA vehicle check will generate a comprehensive report detailing various aspects of the vehicle, including its make, model, year of manufacture, and tax status. Ensure that the information aligns with the details provided by the seller.

Check MOT History

The DVLA vehicle check often includes the MOT (Ministry of Transport) history of the vehicle. This information is vital in assessing the vehicle's roadworthiness and identifying any potential issues that might require attention. By performing a DVLA vehicle check, potential buyers can gain valuable insights into the legitimacy of the vehicle and make informed decisions about its purchase.

Checking Vehicle Records

In addition to a basic DVLA vehicle check, obtaining detailed vehicle records offers a more comprehensive understanding of a car's history. This process goes beyond surface-level details, delving into records that encompass past accidents, changes in ownership, and outstanding fines. To access DVLA vehicle records, several steps can be followed.

Request a Full Vehicle History Check

Begin by requesting a Full Vehicle History Check, which provides a more exhaustive overview compared to a standard DVLA vehicle check. Numerous online services and agencies offer this service, furnishing a detailed report that encapsulates the vehicle's entire history.

Choose a Reputable Service

When opting for this service, it's crucial to choose a reputable and established service provider to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information obtained. Reviews and testimonials can be valuable resources for gauging the effectiveness of a service in providing comprehensive vehicle records.

Provide Necessary Information

To initiate the process, you may be required to provide additional information, such as the vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) or chassis number. This step ensures that the records retrieved are specific to the intended vehicle, enhancing the accuracy of the information.

Review the Comprehensive Report

Once the vehicle records are obtained, it is essential to carefully review the comprehensive report. This detailed document typically includes information about the vehicle's accident history, mileage discrepancies, outstanding finance, and any recorded issues with the vehicle's title. This thorough examination allows potential buyers to make well-informed decisions based on a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle's past.

Verify Ownership History

Furthermore, verifying the ownership history is a critical step in the process. This examination provides insights into how many times the vehicle has changed hands. A consistent and transparent ownership history adds to the credibility of the seller's claims, offering an additional layer of assurance for prospective buyers.

By following these steps and accessing detailed DVLA vehicle records, individuals can gain a comprehensive overview of a used car's history. This wealth of information empowers buyers to make informed decisions, minimising the risks associated with purchasing a used vehicle and ensuring a smoother and more secure car-buying experience.

Accessing DVLA information is a fundamental aspect of the car buying process. By performing a DVLA vehicle check and accessing detailed vehicle records, buyers can equip themselves with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions. The transparency provided by DVLA car data ensures that buyers have a clear understanding of a vehicle's history, enabling them to navigate the used car market with confidence and peace of mind. Utilise the steps outlined in this guide to harness the power of DVLA information for a seamless and informed car purchasing experience.