Types of vehicle history checks
A vehicle history check helps identify common UK buying risks before purchase. Carpeep's report covers major risk categories in one clear report. This page links to guides explaining each specific check and why it matters.
How to use these checks
Start with financial and legal checks to identify immediate risks. Then review damage and structural history to assess past incidents. Next, examine usage and wear indicators to understand how the vehicle has been used. Finally, verify ownership and identity to confirm the vehicle's legitimacy.
Financial & legal risks
Stolen car check
Confirm whether the vehicle is recorded as stolen. This is a legal risk; walk away if flagged.
Outstanding finance check
Identify active finance or interest on the vehicle. Repossession risk if finance remains unpaid.
Scrapped car check
Check if the vehicle is recorded as scrapped or dismantled. This is a major red flag.
Damage & structural history
Write-off check
Review insurance write-off markers. Repair evidence matters when assessing whether a previously written-off vehicle is safe to purchase.
Import check
Review overseas history. Records and specifications can differ for imported vehicles, which may affect value and maintenance requirements.
Colour change check
Check for recorded colour changes. This shows if the vehicle has been repainted.
Usage & wear indicators
Mileage check
Review recorded mileage over time. This helps spot unusual patterns that may indicate tampering or inconsistent use.
Mileage discrepancy check
Identify inconsistent mileage readings across records. This represents a significant fraud risk.
MOT history check
Review pass and fail history. This shows maintenance and roadworthiness trends over time.
MOT advisory check
Review recurring MOT advisories. These can indicate unresolved issues that may require attention.
Ownership & identity
Previous owners check
Review ownership count and timing. Unusual turnover can signal underlying problems.
Vehicle identity check
Confirm core identifiers such as VIN, VRM, and vehicle attributes. Mismatches are serious and indicate potential fraud or identity issues.
Learn how car history checks work
If you want to understand what a full car history check includes, how to read and interpret reports, or learn about common mistakes and best practices, see our educational resources.
View learning resourcesFrequently asked questions
What is a vehicle history check?
A vehicle history check is a report that gathers information from official UK databases to identify potential risks before purchasing a used vehicle. It covers financial, legal, damage, usage, and identity information in one consolidated report.
What does a full car history check include?
A full car history check includes checks for stolen status, outstanding finance, write-off history, mileage records, MOT history, ownership changes, import status, scrapped status, and vehicle identity verification. Carpeep's report covers these major risk categories in one clear format.
Which checks matter most?
Financial and legal checks should be prioritised as they represent immediate risks. Stolen status, outstanding finance, and scrapped status are critical. Damage history and identity verification are also important. Usage indicators help assess wear and potential fraud.
Does a history check replace a mechanical inspection?
No. A vehicle history check reviews recorded information and past events. It does not assess the current mechanical condition of the vehicle. A professional mechanical inspection is still recommended to evaluate the vehicle's present state.
What should I do if something is flagged?
If a check flags an issue, investigate further before proceeding. For legal risks like stolen status or outstanding finance, do not purchase. For damage history, review repair evidence and consider a professional inspection. For discrepancies, verify information with the seller and official sources.