When you’re buying a used car in the UK, one of the most important checks you can perform is to check the MOT history. The MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is a legal requirement for most vehicles over three years old and ensures they meet safety and environmental standards.
By carrying out a simple MOT history check, you could identify recurring faults, potential mechanical issues, and even mileage discrepancies.
This guide will take you through how to check MOT history online, as well as explaining the different defect categories, and highlighting key red flags to watch out for when you’re assessing a car’s past.
We’ll also cover how to cross-reference MOT history with the car’s service records to verify if the mileage is authentic and confirm a vehicle has been well-maintained, along with insurance considerations, the role of independent inspections, and how a vehicle’s MOT history affects its resale value. In short, everything you’ll need to check MOT history for the used car you’ve got your eye on.
How to Check a Car’s MOT History Online
The UK government provides a free and easy way to check any car’s MOT history using just the registration number. Follow these steps:
1. Visit the Official GOV.UK MOT History Check Service
Go to the GOV.UK MOT history check website.
2. Enter the Vehicle’s Registration Number
Simply type in the car’s number plate (registration) and submit the query.
3. Review the MOT History Report
You will see:
- The dates of previous MOT tests
- Whether the car passed or failed
- Recorded mileage at each test
- The reasons for failures or advisory notes
- Additional test data, such as emissions results and exhaust condition
This information is invaluable for determining the condition of the car and how well it has been maintained over time.
Understanding MOT Defect Categories
In 2018, the MOT test changed to introduce new defect categories to standardise vehicle assessments. These categories help buyers understand how serious any recorded issues are:
1. Dangerous Defects 🚨
- Definition: Issues that pose an immediate risk to road safety or the environment.
- Outcome: MOT failure; the car is illegal to drive until repaired.
- Examples:
- Severe brake failure
- Structural corrosion affecting vehicle integrity
- Dangerous tyre defects (eg deep cuts or separation)
2. Major Defects ⚠️
- Definition: Faults that compromise safety but are not immediately hazardous.
- Outcome: MOT failure; the car must be repaired before it can be legally driven.
- Examples:
- Headlights not functioning
- Worn brake pads below legal limit
- Oil or fuel leaks posing a fire risk
3. Minor Defects 🛠️
- Definition: Small issues that do not immediately impact safety but should be repaired.
- Outcome: MOT pass; the defect is recorded as a recommendation.
- Examples:
- Worn wiper blades
- Slightly worn tyres approaching the legal limit
- Exhaust noise levels higher than expected but still compliant
4. Advisory Notes 📋
- Definition: Observations that may not yet be serious but could develop into a problem.
- Outcome: MOT pass; these are warnings rather than failures.
- Examples:
- Light rust on brake discs
- Slight oil seepage from the engine
- Suspension components showing wear
It is worth noting that sometimes you will see advisory notices that have no impact on the car itself, such as ‘Child seat fitted’ or ‘Undertrays fitted obscuring some components’. Nearly all cars have undertrays but this often shows a really tough MOT tester… and as a buyer that’s a good thing!
Red Flags to Watch Out For When Checking MOT History
When reviewing a car’s MOT records, look for:
1. Recurring Issues
If the same faults appear year after year (eg brake problems, emissions failures), it suggests poor maintenance because the last owner could not be bothered to fix the issue or maybe an ongoing mechanical issue.
2. High Number of Advisories
A car with frequent advisory notes may indicate wear and tear that hasn’t been addressed, leading to costly repairs in the future.
3. Corrosion Warnings
Rust and structural damage, especially near suspension or braking components, can compromise safety and be expensive to repair. Be careful of corrosion warnings in the past but not in more recent tests. This may point to a more lenient MOT tester in recent times. (Unless the car has had corrosion repairs since then.)
4. Multiple Failures Over Time
If a car has failed multiple MOTs, it might have been poorly maintained. Check if previous advisories were fixed before the next test.
5. Sudden Mileage Drops or Inconsistencies
Anomalies in recorded mileage could indicate odometer tampering. If the vehicle has suspiciously low mileage, be cautious.
Verifying Mileage Authenticity
Odometer fraud (mileage clocking) is a known issue in the used car market. Checking MOT history helps detect inconsistencies. Here’s how:
1. Compare Recorded Mileages
- Look for steady mileage progression over the years.
- If mileage drops suddenly (e.g., from 100,000 miles to 60,000), the odometer may have been tampered with.
2. Cross-Check with Service Records
Service books often record mileage at the time of maintenance. Ensure this aligns with MOT records.
3. Identify Gaps in MOT History
If a car skipped an MOT for a year or more, it may indicate the vehicle was off the road, or its mileage was altered before reappearing.
4. Investigate Discrepancies with a Vehicle History Check
Services like HPI Check and AutoCheck can help confirm the legitimacy of mileage readings when you’re carrying out a vehicle history check.
What Else to Consider When Checking MOT History
- Impact on Resale Value: Cars with consistent MOT pass rates generally retain higher resale values.
- Independent Inspections: If unsure, get a trusted mechanic to perform a pre-purchase inspection.
- Checking for Outstanding Recalls: Some manufacturers issue recalls for safety concerns. You can verify these on the DVSA Recall Checker.
Car MOT Check: The Essentials
Checking a used car’s MOT history is one of the most important steps in ensuring you’re making a sound investment. By understanding MOT defect categories, identifying red flags, and verifying mileage consistency, you can make a more informed decision and avoid costly surprises down the line.
A well-maintained car with a clean MOT history and no suspicious gaps is always a safer bet. However, if you spot multiple issues, advisories, or inconsistent mileage, proceed with caution or consider walking away.
Looking for expert guidance? At Palmdale Car Finders, we help UK buyers find the best used cars with minimal hassle. Get in touch today for professional car sourcing services!