ONLINE
Match it with DVLA
Ask the seller for the registration, make, model and MOT test number, then check they match what DVLA holds: tax, MOT expiry, first registration, engine size and fuel type.
Check your rightsWHAT THE OFFICIAL GUIDANCE SAYS
Check the car
before the handshake.
Most of the checks on a used car are free and take minutes online.
Check your rights
30 DAYSto reject a faulty car from a dealer
- Match the details
- Read the MOT history
- Inspect the log book
- Free checks, fewer surprises
GOV.UK sets out a short list: match the details with DVLA, read the MOT history, look for safety recalls and inspect the log book. This independent guide walks through them, and through what consumer law says if a car bought from a dealer turns out faulty.
Updated
THE SHORT ANSWER
Three checks,
one document.
GOV.UK's checklist starts before you even see the car
and ends with taxing it the day you buy.
HISTORY
Read the MOT record
The free MOT history shows passes, fails and the mileage at each test for cars tested since 2005, which helps spot a mileage that does not fit.
See the numbers
IN PERSON
Inspect the log book
Look for the 'DVL' watermark on the V5C, check its serial number against GOV.UK's stolen ranges, and match the VIN and engine number to the car.
The full checklistGeneral information only, not financial advice. For advice on your own situation, speak to a regulated financial adviser or a free money-advice service.
WHO ARE YOU BUYING FROM?
How much does
the law cover you?
Your rights depend on who sells the car and how long ago you bought it. Pick a situation. The bar shows how strong the legal protection is.
Based on the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and nidirect's summary of it. General information, not legal advice.
TWO NUMBERS WORTH KNOWING
A record that
goes back years.
One date that shows how far the free MOT record reaches,
one deadline that matters after you buy.
2005
Car, motorcycle and van MOT results available since
The free GOV.UK service shows each test's result, the mileage recorded and when the next MOT is due. For tests in Great Britain you can also see failed parts and minor problems.
MOT HISTORY · GOV.UK
30 days
Short-term right to reject faulty goods from a trader
The Act sets the time limit at the end of 30 days from the day after ownership passes and the goods are delivered. A refund should follow within 14 days of returning the car, nidirect says.
RIGHT TO REJECT · CONSUMER RIGHTS ACT 2015
A car needs an MOT every year once it is 3 years old, GOV.UK says, and you must have insurance and tax before using it on the road.
THE GOV.UK CHECKLIST
Four steps,
in order.
This follows GOV.UK's 'Buy a vehicle' step-by-step guide. Each check uses the car's number plate or the log book.
Before you visit
Get the registration, make, model and MOT test number. Check them against DVLA's vehicle enquiry service and the MOT history, and look for safety recalls.
At the viewing
Ask to see the V5C. If its serial number is between BG8229501 and BG9999030, or BI2305501 and BI2800000, it might be stolen: call the police when safe.
Match the metal
Check the vehicle identification number and engine number on the car match the log book, and the log book matches what you were told.
On the day you buy
Tax the car immediately using the green 'new keeper' slip from the log book, and make sure it is insured before you drive it.
MILEAGE CLOCKING
When the numbers
do not add up.
Turning back a car's mileage, known as clocking, is illegal. It makes a car look more valuable and can hide service work that is due.
nidirect suggests comparing the mileage with service and MOT records and, where you can, the previous owner's account. The MOT history's recorded mileage at each test makes a sudden drop easy to see.
Questions
Questions people ask
What do I need from the seller to run the checks?
GOV.UK says to ask for the registration number, make and model and MOT test number. With those you can check DVLA's details, the MOT history and recalls before you go.
What should a genuine V5C log book look like?
GOV.UK says it should have a 'DVL' watermark and a serial number outside the ranges BG8229501 to BG9999030 and BI2305501 to BI2800000. If it falls inside them, it might be stolen.
Does vehicle tax come with the car?
No. GOV.UK says to tax the vehicle immediately after you buy it, using the green 'new keeper' slip from the log book.
Can I return a faulty used car to a dealer?
Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 you have a short-term right to reject goods that are not of satisfactory quality, as described or fit for purpose, normally within 30 days. After that, the trader gets one chance to repair or replace.
Is this site a garage?
No. It is an independent informational guide that summarises official guidance. It does not sell, repair or inspect vehicles, and it is not legal advice.