Understanding history checks, write-off categories, finance, and what they mean for you.
How we source our data: our free checks use official records from the DVLA (registration & tax) and DVSA (MOT history). Paid full history data — finance, stolen and write-off markers — is supplied by UK Vehicle Data (UKVD), which aggregates industry registers including MIAFTR (insurance write-offs) and the Police National Computer (stolen markers). MotorMkt does not query those registers directly.
Check the actual vehicle
Enter its registration to check the official tax, MOT and mileage record free. If you need provenance for a purchase or ownership decision, add finance, stolen and write-off checks.
Free: vehicle identity, tax/SORN, MOT history, mileage and buyer red flags.
Full history: adds outstanding finance, stolen, insurance write-off and other paid provenance checks.
The full report is optional. Review the free official record first if you are unsure. Payment is completed securely on the next screen.
Quick Answer
A vehicle history check reveals hidden problems: outstanding finance (finance company can repossess the car from you), write-off history (Cat A/B cannot be driven, Cat S/N can but affect value), stolen status, and mileage discrepancies. Our free check shows MOT history and mileage records. A full history check (paid) reveals finance, write-offs, and stolen status - essential before buying any used car.
A vehicle history check searches multiple databases to reveal important information about a car's history that the seller might not disclose – or might not even know about.
When a car is damaged and the insurer decides repair costs exceed its value, it's "written off." The category tells you how severe the damage was — the definitions follow the ABI Salvage Code.
The entire vehicle must be crushed. Nothing can be saved. These cars should never appear for sale.
⚠️ If you see a Cat A for sale, report it immediately.
The body shell must be destroyed, but parts can be salvaged. You might see engines or parts from Cat B vehicles, but never the whole car.
⚠️ A Cat B car cannot legally be returned to the road.
Structural damage (chassis, frame, etc.) but can be repaired and returned to road. Must be professionally repaired and inspected. These cars are significantly cheaper but can be harder to insure and resell.
✓ Can be driven if properly repaired
⚠️ Always get an independent inspection
⚠️ Disclose when selling – it's legally required
Non-structural damage only (bumpers, lights, etc.). Often cosmetic damage where repair cost exceeded value. Can be excellent value if repaired properly.
✓ Often good value for money
✓ Easier to insure than Cat S
⚠️ Still check repair quality
"Clocking" – winding back the odometer – is illegal but still happens. A clocked car might seem like a bargain but could have hidden wear and mechanical issues.
Our free car check displays the full MOT mileage history, making it easy to spot discrepancies. Look for consistent increases – any decrease or suspicious jump should be investigated.
MOT history is publicly available from the DVSA MOT history service and tells you a lot about how a car has been maintained. Every test records mileage, pass/fail status, and any advisories.
Good Signs
Warning Signs