Free Mot History Checker

What Is an MOT History?

An MOT history is a record of all MOT tests a vehicle has undergone since it was first required to be tested (usually from its third year on the road). It includes the pass or fail result for each test, along with:

• Mileage at the time of test

• Failure reasons (e.g. worn brake pads, faulty lights)

• Advisories and minor defects (e.g. tyre tread low, slight oil leak)

• Test dates

• MOT expiry dates

Checking a car’s MOT history helps you spot recurring issues, assess how well the vehicle has been maintained, and verify mileage accuracy over time.

An MOT checker is an essential tool for any car owner or potential buyer. It lets you verify a vehicle’s MOT status and history, helping you stay road legal, avoid fines, and make smarter decisions when purchasing a used car.

Whether you’re checking your own vehicle or researching a second-hand car, a reliable MOT check gives you vital information about the car’s safety, past performance, and potential problems. With Motorscan’s MOT checker, you get far more than the basic details offered by the official government service.

Why Would You Need an MOT Check?

1. Stay Legal and Insured
   If your vehicle is over three years old, it must pass an MOT test annually. Driving without a valid MOT certificate is a criminal offence under Section 47 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. You could face:
   • A £1,000 fine
   • 6 to 8 points on your licence
   • Invalidated insurance in the event of an accident

   Regularly using an MOT status checker ensures you’re never caught off guard.

2. Avoid Costly Surprises
   A quick MOT history check can help you identify recurring faults or maintenance issues. This is especially valuable when buying a used car. If a vehicle has consistently failed on things like brakes, tyres, or suspension, it may not have been well looked after.
3. Track Mileage and Spot Clocking
   Each MOT includes a mileage reading. Comparing readings year-on-year helps detect possible mileage discrepancies, a key sign of odometer tampering.
4. Plan Ahead
   Knowing your vehicle’s next MOT due date helps you plan maintenance and avoid last-minute rushes. You can also set reminders using tools like Motorscan to stay organised.

What Can You Get from an MOT Check?

A full MOT check provides the following data:

• MOT pass/fail status
• Mileage recorded at each test
• Reasons for MOT failures
• Advisory and minor faults recorded
• Test date and expiry date
• Next MOT due date
• Vehicle tax and registration status
• MOT test location (in some cases)

This information helps you assess the car’s condition and how well it has been maintained over time.

How Motorscan’s MOT Checker Gives You More

While the official GOV.UK MOT checker provides basic pass/fail results and test history, Motorscan’s MOT checker goes further by combining MOT data with other crucial vehicle insights—all in one report.

With Motorscan, you get:

• Full MOT history with reasons for failure and advisory notes
• Mileage comparison and clocking alerts
• Automatic reminders for upcoming MOT dates
• Vehicle tax status
• Running cost estimates (fuel economy, tax band, insurance group)
• Full vehicle specifications
• Check if the vehicle is written off, stolen, or under finance
• Previous owner count and registration timeline

Unlike the official service, which only offers MOT and tax status, Motorscan helps you build a complete picture of the vehicle’s history—perfect for both buyers and owners.

Why Use Motorscan Over the Official MOT Check?

Motorscan provides a full vehicle history check, not just MOT data. It’s the smarter, more comprehensive option when you need to check a vehicle’s MOT or get the full picture before buying.

Check Your MOT Status Instantly

Enter your registration on Motorscan and get your free MOT check within seconds. It’s fast, simple, and packed with insights to help you buy with confidence or stay on top of your vehicle maintenance.