Contents
In short
- The MOT history is free on GOV.UK: you only need the registration number.
- It lists every test since the car was 3 years old, with mileage, failures and advisories.
- Mileage that drops or stalls between tests can mean clocking.
- Advisories are tomorrow's bills: corrosion, tyres, brakes, suspension.
- Repeated failures on the same item show how the car has been maintained.
Where to check and what you need
The MOT history service on GOV.UK is free and open to anyone. Enter the registration number and you'll see every MOT test recorded for the car.
In Great Britain, cars need an MOT from three years old, then every year. A car younger than three years won't have any history yet.
Read the mileage readings
Each test records the mileage. Put them in order and check that they rise steadily.
- A reading lower than the previous one is a serious warning sign: possible clocking or an instrument cluster swap.
- Very low annual mileage for years, then a jump, can mean the car wasn't used or the odometer was changed.
- The current mileage shown in the ad must be consistent with the last reading and the time since.
Failures and advisories: what they tell you
Failures are faults that had to be fixed before the car passed. Advisories are items that passed but are wearing out.
- Corrosion on brake pipes, sills or subframes: often expensive and getting worse every winter.
- Tyres close to the legal limit: budget for replacement.
- Brake discs and pads worn: a common and quick cost to add up.
- Oil leaks and suspension wear (bushes, ball joints, springs).
- The same advisory year after year: the owner didn't fix it, which says a lot about maintenance.
Use the history to negotiate
Advisories on the last MOT are documented, so the seller can't deny them. Add up the cost of fixing them and use the total in your offer. See our negotiation method.
A short MOT (a few weeks left) is also an argument: ask for a fresh MOT or a lower price.
Written by
The Carvizia team
Every day we analyse used car listings: engines, known faults, maintenance and market value. Our guides bring together what to check before you buy, without jargon.
About usFrequently asked questions
Is the MOT history check free?
Yes. The GOV.UK service is free and only needs the registration number.
Does a clean MOT mean the car is reliable?
No. The MOT checks roadworthiness on the day, not the engine's known weaknesses or upcoming maintenance like a timing belt.
What if the mileage readings go down?
Ask the seller for an explanation and paperwork (a replaced instrument cluster should come with an invoice). Without a clear answer, walk away.