Works with PistonHeads
Check a PistonHeads listing in 3 steps
- 1
Copy the link
5 sOn the PistonHeads site: copy the address of the listing page, on your phone or computer.
- 2
Paste it into Carvizia
2 sOne bar, no registration number or form to fill in.
- 3
Read the verdict
≈ 1 minExact engine, known faults, upcoming maintenance and how much to negotiate.
Everything the listing doesn't tell you
A full report for every PistonHeads listing, ready in about a minute. Extracts from the sample report: Volkswagen Polo 2015.
A clear verdict
Reliability score and decision at a glance.
The exact engine's known faults
Identified for the listing's precise engine, with their severity and cost.
- Timing belt tensioner£450 – £500Critical
- Water pump leaks£300High
- Touchscreen faults£350Medium
Maintenance coming up
This engine's next service items, costed in the report.
A price to negotiate
The market value and costed arguments to put to the seller.
Viewing checklist
- Squeal from the belt area on a cold start
- Coolant leaks around the thermostat
- Touchscreen responds normally
Tax and running costs
Vehicle tax (VED) and the costs of buying this car, estimated from its details.
Manufacturer recalls
Official recalls to check with the seller.
What to watch on PistonHeads
Expensive maintenance
On performance cars, a single major service or clutch can cost thousands.
What to do
Check which major jobs are due at this mileage and whether invoices prove they were done.
Modifications
Remaps and aftermarket parts can affect reliability and insurance.
What to do
Ask for a full list of modifications and tell your insurer before you buy.
Specialist history
A stamped book isn't enough: the right specialist and the right intervals matter.
What to do
Ask for itemised invoices and compare them with the report's maintenance schedule.
Frequently asked questions
About checking a PistonHeads listing.
Does Carvizia work for sports and specialist cars?
Yes. The report identifies the exact engine and gearbox and lists their known faults and major maintenance jobs, which matter even more on performance cars.
Can the report tell if a car has been modified?
It can't see under the bonnet, but it lists what to check during the viewing and the questions to ask the seller about remaps and aftermarket parts.
Is the market value reliable for rare cars?
For rare models, prices vary a lot with condition and history. The report gives a range from comparable cars on sale; treat it as a starting point for negotiation.