What Car History Reports Don't Tell You

A car history report is one of the smartest things you can buy before handing over your money for a used car. But here's the truth most companies won't tell you: it's not magic. It doesn't replace common sense, a test drive, or a quick look under the bonnet.

At Carpeep, we're proud of how much our reports include — stolen checks, finance, write-offs, mileage, MOT, tax, ownership history, the lot. But even we'll tell you straight: a car history check isn't the full story.

Here's what you still need to look out for.

1. A Clean Report Doesn't Mean a Perfect Car

A car can pass every check on paper and still have issues that only show up in real life. A history check tells you what's been recorded, not what's about to go wrong.

Things a Report Can't Show You

• Hidden mechanical problems. Blown turbos, dodgy gearboxes, misfires — none of that is stored in national databases.
• Neglected maintenance. Missed oil changes or cheap replacement parts won't raise a red flag unless they've led to a formal repair or MOT failure.
• Flood or rust damage. Unless it was written off by insurance, there's no record. You'd have to spot it yourself.

2. Mileage Data Has Limits

Our reports flag mileage discrepancies, but keep this in mind — mileage data comes mostly from MOT tests and recorded services. If a car was clocked between those events, no system can catch it.

Always Check

• MOT certificates and service stamps match the mileage in the ad
• Wear and tear matches claimed mileage — worn pedals or seats with only 40,000 miles? Yeah, right
• Service history shows consistent mileage increases

3. Private Repairs Don't Always Leave a Paper Trail

Not every crash goes through insurance. Some people fix damage privately, especially minor knocks or even moderate ones they'd rather not declare.

What to Look For

• Paint consistency across panels — mismatched shades are a red flag
• Uneven gaps between doors and bonnet — could indicate frame damage
• Fresh paint on one panel but not others
• Overspray on rubber seals or trim

Get a pre-purchase inspection if something feels off. A £100 inspection could save you thousands.

4. "Clear" Doesn't Mean "Right for You"

A car might be technically clean — no finance, no theft, no write-off — but still be the wrong buy. Maybe it's been used as a delivery car and thrashed every day. Maybe it's on its third clutch. Maybe it's due a massive service bill next month.

What a Report Can't Tell You

• How the car was driven (delivery, taxi, track days)
• Upcoming service costs
• Wear on expensive components (clutch, turbo, etc.)
• Whether it fits your needs

What a Report Does Tell You

• Outstanding finance (critical)
• Stolen status (critical)
• Write-off history (critical)
• Mileage discrepancies
• Ownership history

Use the report to avoid scams, not to skip due diligence. A full report tells you the car's past, but you still have to judge its future.

5. Use the Report as a Tool — Not a Crutch

A vehicle check is one part of buying smart. It protects you from being ripped off, but it's not a replacement for basic checks.

Your Complete Checklist

• Run a vehicle history check (obviously)
• View the car in daylight — never in the dark
• Start it cold — listen for unusual noises
• Check all electrics work (windows, lights, AC, etc.)
• Look at tyres and brake wear
• Check service history matches the report
• Take it for a test drive
• Get a pre-purchase inspection for expensive cars

The Bottom Line

Key Takeaways

• A clean report doesn't mean a perfect car — still inspect it
• Mileage data has limits — check wear and tear yourself
• Private repairs don't show up — look for paint and panel issues
• A report is your starting point, not your safety net
• Use the report to avoid scams, not to skip due diligence

At Carpeep, we'll never tell you a history check is the only thing you need. That's marketing nonsense. A report is your starting point, not your safety net.

So before you buy, do both: