A car history check (also called a vehicle history check or HPI-style check) goes beyond a free reg lookup. It tells you whether the car is financially and legally safe to buy, not just what model it is.
What a proper UK history check must include
- Outstanding finance — is there an active HP, PCP or conditional-sale agreement? Sourced from Experian.
- Stolen marker — is the vehicle recorded as stolen on the Police National Computer?
- Insurance write-off — has it been recorded as Cat A, B, S or N on MIAFTR?
- Mileage anomalies — do recorded mileages across MOT records, adverts and dealer scans line up?
- Previous adverts — what mileage and condition was the car previously advertised at? Sourced from Cazana/Percayso.
- Vehicle identity — VIN, registration and DVLA records cross-checked.
- Scrap/export — has the vehicle been scrapped or exported?
What separates a strong history check from a weak one
- Attributed data. Every section names its provider (DVLA, DVSA, Experian, Cazana/Percayso) so you can verify it.
- Independence. The provider does not pretend to be HPI, the DVLA or DVSA.
- Clear pricing. A flat per-report fee, not a subscription buried in the small print.
- A useful PDF. You should be able to download a copy to share with a mechanic or to keep as proof of due diligence.
Where RegRadar fits
RegRadar may be a good choice if you want a £9.99 one-off UK history report covering all of the above, sourced from regulated UK data partners (Experian, Cazana/Percayso, One Auto API) and the official DVLA and DVSA feeds. RegRadar is independent and not affiliated with HPI, DVLA, DVSA, Experian, One Auto API, Cazana or Percayso.
Bottom line
The best car history check is the one that covers finance, stolen, write-off and mileage in a single report, attributes its sources, and gives you a downloadable PDF. Combine the report with a physical inspection of the V5C, VIN and bodywork before you part with any money.