What can a vehicle history report tell you?

A vehicle history report brings together records associated with a car. Its value is in helping you ask more specific questions before deciding whether to buy.

Look at the individual checks

A report may contain finance, stolen, write-off, mileage, keeper or registration history. The exact records and detail depend on the provider and package. Do not assume that a heading on a product page means every vehicle will return information for it.

Turn a finding into a question

If a report flags a record, read the detailed section before deciding what it means. A date, category or agreement reference can give you something specific to investigate with the seller or the relevant organisation.

Keep different questions separate. An MOT mileage entry and an outstanding finance record describe different parts of the car’s history and need different follow-up.

Explore a sample first

A provider’s sample report can show how alerts, explanations and detailed records are presented. Sample vehicle data is illustrative, not evidence about the car you are considering.

The report does not replace a physical inspection or a check of the vehicle’s documents. Browse the directory to find a provider and explore its own report information.