The short answer
In Great Britain the mileage is recorded at every MOT test, so a car's MOT history gives a reading for each test from its first one, normally at three years old. Readings that fall, stall or jump unevenly can point to a clocked odometer or a replaced instrument cluster. Our reports list every reading with a verdict and flag any that went down; the readings alone are free with our vehicle look-up.
Where does a car's mileage history come from?
At each MOT test in Great Britain, the tester records the odometer reading with the result, and the DVSA keeps it. Over the years those readings form a timeline of how far the car has travelled.
A car normally has its first MOT at three years old, so a newer car has no readings yet. For those, the service book and dealer invoices are the record you have.
How can you tell if a car has been clocked?
- A reading lower than the one before it.
- A year with very few miles between two busy ones, with no reason given.
- Wear that does not fit the miles: a polished steering wheel, worn pedal rubbers or a tired driver's seat on a low-mileage car.
- Service stamps or invoices whose mileages do not follow on from the MOT readings.
A mismatch is not always fraud: an instrument cluster can be replaced, and a tester can mistype a reading. A replaced cluster should come with paperwork, so ask for it.
What does the mileage verdict in the report show?
- Every MOT mileage reading on record, in date order
- A verdict on whether the readings add up
- Any reading lower than an earlier one, flagged
The mileage verdict is in the Basic report (£3.99) and the Premium report (£7.99). Premium also checks finance, write-off and stolen records, and the registration history of keepers and plates is in both.
Can you check vehicle mileage history for free?
Yes, the readings themselves: type the registration into the free look-up at the foot of this page to see the car's MOT history, with the mileage recorded at each test.
The report goes further. It reads the timeline for you, gives a verdict, and sets it beside the car's keepers, plate changes and valuation.
What should you do if the mileage does not add up?
Ask the seller to explain the reading, and for the paperwork of any replaced instrument cluster. Without a good answer, walk away: a car with a false mileage is worth less than its price, and parts that wear with use may need replacing sooner than you expect.
Selling a car while knowing its mileage is false can be an offence, and a trader must describe a car's mileage honestly. If you have already bought one, Citizens Advice can explain what you can do next.
Questions buyers ask
Can I check mileage history for free?
Yes, the readings are free: our vehicle look-up shows the MOT history with the mileage at each test. The verdict on whether they add up is in the Basic report (£3.99) and the Premium report (£7.99).
Why does a car have no mileage readings?
It may be under three years old and not yet due its first MOT, or exempt from the MOT, as some vehicles over 40 years old are.
Is a lower reading always a sign of clocking?
No. A replaced instrument cluster or a typing mistake at a test can cause one. Ask for paperwork; without it, treat the mileage as unproven.
Is it legal to change a car's mileage reading?
Changing the reading is not an offence in itself, but selling the car without telling the buyer that the mileage shown is wrong can be. A trader must describe a car's mileage honestly.
Does the mileage check need anything but the registration?
No. The registration is all it takes; the email address you give is where the report is sent.