MOT Check Comparisons — Free vs Paid Vehicle Data
Understand the difference between free and paid vehicle checks — so you know exactly what you need before buying or checking a vehicle.
MOT Checker vs HPI Check
An MOT checker is free and shows MOT status and history from official DVSA records. An HPI check is paid and…
View comparison →Free MOT Check vs Paid Vehicle Check
A free MOT check covers official DVSA MOT history, road tax status, and basic vehicle data at no cost. Paid checks add…
View comparison →Why Vehicle Checks Matter
Before buying or selling a used vehicle in the UK, running the right checks can save you thousands of pounds and prevent legal problems. The two most important checks are the free MOT history check and a paid finance/write-off check. This section helps you understand exactly what each provides, so you can make an informed decision about which checks to run.
The Free MOT Check — What It Covers
The free MOT status check queries the official DVSA MOT History API and returns: the current MOT status (valid, expired, or due soon), the exact MOT expiry date, the full history of every recorded MOT test (including test dates, results, failure reasons, advisory items, and mileage at each test), and basic vehicle details (make, colour, year, engine size). Road tax (VED) status is also available. All of this is free, from official government data, with no sign-up required.
Paid Vehicle Checks — What They Add
Paid vehicle data checks from providers such as HPI, the AA, Experian AutoCheck, or the RAC add information not available from free government sources. This includes: outstanding finance (whether the vehicle has an active hire purchase or PCP agreement), insurance write-off history (whether the vehicle has been categorised as Cat A, B, S, or N after an accident), stolen vehicle status (via the Police National Computer), number of previous registered keepers, and registration plate change history. Prices typically range from £9.99 to £24.99 depending on the provider and level of data included.
Which Check Do You Need?
For checking your own vehicle's MOT: the free check is all you need. For a pre-purchase check on a used car: always start with the free MOT history check (it costs nothing), then add a paid finance and write-off check if you are seriously considering the purchase. The combination gives complete pre-purchase protection.
Outstanding Finance — The Biggest Risk
Outstanding finance on a used car is the single largest financial risk in a private vehicle purchase. If a seller has an active PCP or HP agreement, the finance company retains a legal interest in the vehicle. If you purchase it and the seller defaults, the finance company can legally repossess the car from you — even though you paid in good faith. Only a paid finance check reveals whether this risk exists.