Checking a part-exchange before you make an offer
The short answer
Run the reg before you name a figure. The last MOT’s advisories show the work the car is likely to need, the mileage at each MOT shows whether the odometer fits the record, and the MOT expiry and recall status tell you what has to happen before you can sell it on.
A part-exchange is a car you are about to own. Everything the MOT has recorded about it is public and comes from the registration, so you can see most of what a buyer will later see before you agree a price.
What to look at on the record
- Advisories on the last MOT. They did not fail the car, but they are the tester’s note of what is wearing. Tyres, brakes and suspension advisories are money you are likely to spend before you sell it.
- Parts that keep coming back. The same part noted at two or three tests in a row means it was patched or left. A buyer will spot the pattern too.
- Mileage at every MOT. Each reading should be higher than the last. Compare the latest one with the odometer in front of you: a lower figure on the dash than on the last MOT needs explaining.
- When the MOT runs out. A car with a few weeks left needs a test before it goes on sale. Price in the risk of a fail.
- Outstanding recalls. A recall still open on the car is work to arrange with a franchised dealer before you sell it.
- Tax and the DVLA details. Make, colour and engine should match the car and the logbook.
What it looks like on a report
On the sample car, the mileage record and a test that failed, then passed on retest the same day:
1st August 2023
84,772 miles
Failedthenpassed on retestthe same day
- Major
Offside rear brake light not workingMOT ref 4.1.4
- Major
Nearside rear suspension component has excessive play in a pin or bushMOT ref 5.3.4 (a) (ii)
- Minor
Engine oil leak excessiveMOT ref 8.4.1 (a) (i)
- Advisory
Engine oil leakMOT ref 8.4.1 (a) (i)
- Major
Sample data, for illustration.
What to check on the car itself
The record does not replace looking at the car. Before you agree a price, ask for:
- Service history: stamped book or invoices
- V5C logbook in the seller’s name
- Latest MOT certificate
- All keys, including the spare
If you buy the car, the same report becomes the one you hand your buyer when it goes back out.
Frequently asked questions
Can I check a part-exchange for free?
Yes. Type the reg and the free profile shows tax and MOT status, outstanding recalls, the mileage at every MOT and each MOT result with how many defects it had. The full report adds every defect and advisory word for word.
Does this tell me if there is finance on the car?
No. The MOT record and DVLA data do not hold finance, write-off or theft markers. Run a provenance check for those before you buy.
How long does a check take?
The free profile appears as soon as you enter the reg. A full report opens straight away and fills in as the record arrives.
Sources
Checked on 25th September 2026. This page explains the rules in plain English; it is not legal advice.