Free pre-purchase car check

Enter a reg and we pull the car's spec and its public MOT history, then build a tailored inspection checklist: commonly reported faults for that exact model, engine-family risks (wet belts, timing chains, DSG gearboxes), checks generated from the car's real MOT advisories, and red flags from the MOT record — like mileage that goes backwards between tests or long MOT gaps. Each item includes a typical UK repair-cost range where we have one.

The check is free, but you need a free ScanAuctions account to run it — registration takes under a minute and no card is needed. A free account also gets you a free car valuation.

No. This is an inspection checklist, not a provenance check — it won't tell you about outstanding finance, theft markers or insurance write-off (Cat S/N) status. Run a separate provenance check before money changes hands. What our red flags do cover is what the public MOT record can reveal, such as possible mileage discrepancies.

Deal-breaker means walk away or renegotiate substantially if the issue is confirmed at the viewing. Haggle means it's real leverage — price the typical repair cost into your offer. Minor is worth checking but unlikely to change the deal. The report is print-friendly, so you can take the checklist to the viewing.