A Free Window Into Your Car’s Past

Ever wondered what an MOT tester wrote about your car years ago? Or whether that low-mileage bargain has really been looked after? The good news is, you can check the full MOT history of any car online; free, instant, and completely official. It’s one of the most useful tools the government’s ever launched for UK motorists.

Checking your MOT history isn’t just about curiosity. It can help you spot patterns, plan repairs, and avoid buying someone else’s problems. All you need is the car’s number plate.

Step-by-Step: How to Check

The easiest way is through the GOV.UK MOT history service. Here’s how it works:

• Go to www.gov.uk/check-mot-history.
• Enter the vehicle’s registration number (number plate).
• Click “Continue” to see a complete record of passes, failures, advisories, and test dates.

You’ll also see recorded mileages, the testing location, and a colour-coded timeline showing when MOTs were due and passed. It’s updated in real time; no log-in, no payment, no fuss.

If you want to check whether a car currently has a valid MOT, use the separate MOT status checker. That one tells you the expiry date at a glance.

What the MOT History Can Tell You

An MOT history is like a car’s health diary. Each entry shows how well it’s been maintained over the years. Repeated advisories; such as worn tyres, corroded brakes, or suspension issues; suggest a car that’s been only lightly maintained between tests. Clean passes, on the other hand, indicate regular care.

You can also compare mileage year by year to spot anything suspicious. A sudden drop or mismatch could mean the odometer’s been tampered with, or that the car spent long periods off the road.

Why It’s Useful When Buying a Used Car

For buyers, this tool is invaluable. You can check any car before viewing it, even without the seller’s details. If an advert claims “full MOT” but the database says otherwise, you’ll know immediately. You can also see whether a car’s been consistently tested at the same garage; a good sign of honest upkeep.

Combine the MOT history with a free vehicle information check on GOV.UK’s vehicle enquiry service to see when the tax runs out, its CO₂ rating, and the date of first registration. Together, they give you a full snapshot of the car’s life.

Keeping Tabs on Your Own Car

Even if you’re not buying or selling, checking your own MOT history now and then can help you plan maintenance. Old advisories don’t disappear; they’re there as a gentle reminder of what may need attention soon. If your car failed last year on tyres or bulbs, for example, you’ll know what to watch next time.

You can also sign up for free MOT reminders by text or email through GOV.UK’s MOT reminder service. It’s a small thing, but it stops those last-minute scrambles for an appointment when the test date sneaks up.

When Something Looks Wrong

If the online record shows an error; perhaps a test listed under your plate that wasn’t yours; contact the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). They manage the MOT system and can investigate incorrect entries. Keep any garage receipts or MOT certificates as proof if you need to query the record.

Useful UK Resources

• GOV.UK – Check MOT History
• GOV.UK – Check MOT Status
• GOV.UK – MOT Reminder Service
• GOV.UK – Vehicle Information Checker