MOT history check
An MOT history check reveals a vehicle's complete MOT test history, including all test dates, pass/fail results, advisories, and recorded mileage at each test. This check helps buyers understand the vehicle's maintenance history, identify potential issues, and verify mileage accuracy.
Why this matters
MOT history provides a clear record of a vehicle's roadworthiness and maintenance over time. Frequent failures or recurring advisories may indicate ongoing issues. MOT history also records mileage at each test, helping identify potential odometer rollbacks. Gaps in MOT history may indicate periods when the vehicle was off the road or unregistered.
What can happen if you skip it
- You may miss ongoing mechanical issues indicated by recurring advisories
- You may not identify vehicles with frequent MOT failures
- You may miss mileage discrepancies that are visible in MOT records
- You may not notice gaps in MOT history that could indicate problems
- You may purchase a vehicle that requires immediate expensive repairs
What to look for before buying
- Run a vehicle history check to view complete MOT history
- Check for frequent MOT failures or recurring advisories
- Verify mileage progression is consistent across MOT tests
- Look for gaps in MOT history that may indicate problems
- Check the most recent MOT result and any current advisories
- Verify the vehicle has a current valid MOT certificate
How a vehicle history check helps
A vehicle history check provides complete MOT history from official DVSA records, showing all test dates, pass/fail results, advisories, and recorded mileage at each test. This helps buyers understand the vehicle's maintenance history, identify potential issues, and verify mileage accuracy. The check reveals patterns that may indicate ongoing problems or maintenance needs.
What a Carpeep vehicle history check can show
- Theft and recovery status, including whether the vehicle has been reported stolen
- Write-off category (Cat S, Cat N, Cat A, Cat B, Cat C, Cat D) and date of write-off
- Outstanding finance agreements, including provider name, agreement type, and start date
- Mileage inconsistencies and potential odometer rollbacks, automatically flagged
- Keeper changes and number of previous owners
- MOT history timeline, including all test dates, pass/fail results, advisories, and recorded mileage at each test
- Vehicle identity verification
Related guides
Learn more about MOT issues: What does MOT advisory mean?, What does MOT failure mean?, What does long MOT gap mean?, and What does no MOT history mean?
Frequently asked questions
How can I check a car's MOT history?
You can check a car's MOT history by running a vehicle history check using the vehicle's registration number. The check will show all MOT test dates, pass/fail results, advisories, and recorded mileage at each test. This information comes from official DVSA records.
What should I look for in MOT history?
Look for frequent MOT failures, recurring advisories, gaps in MOT history, and mileage progression. Frequent failures or recurring advisories may indicate ongoing issues. Gaps may indicate periods when the vehicle was off the road. Mileage should increase consistently over time.
What is an MOT advisory?
An MOT advisory is a note about a potential issue that does not cause the vehicle to fail the test but may need attention in the future. Recurring advisories may indicate ongoing problems that should be investigated before purchasing.
Can MOT history show mileage discrepancies?
Yes, MOT history records the mileage at each test, making it easy to identify discrepancies. If the current mileage is lower than a previous MOT reading, this indicates a potential odometer rollback. A vehicle history check automatically compares these records and flags discrepancies.
What does a long MOT gap mean?
A long MOT gap may indicate the vehicle was off the road, unregistered, or had issues that prevented it from being tested. You should investigate why there was a gap and verify the vehicle's history during that period.
Is it safe to buy a car with MOT failures?
It depends on the nature of the failures and whether they have been resolved. Occasional failures that were quickly fixed may not be a concern, but frequent failures or recurring issues may indicate ongoing problems. Always have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing.