Check a Car

MyPlateCheck

Check the car before you buy it.

Start with a free vehicle check, then go deeper only when you need to.

Run a Free Vehicle Check

Outstanding finance check

Check for outstanding finance before money changes hands.

Finance is one of the most important hidden risks when buying a used vehicle. Possession of the car does not by itself prove that the seller can transfer it without an existing finance interest.

UK registration lookupMOT & tax contextBuyer-focused reports

Why finance history matters

A vehicle may still be subject to a finance agreement even when it is advertised for sale. If finance is recorded, do not rely on a verbal promise that it will be sorted later.

What to do when finance is found

Ask for clear evidence of the agreement and how it will be settled. Consider confirming the position with the relevant finance provider before paying the seller or taking the vehicle.

Finance is an Ultimate-level check

MyPlateCheck keeps outstanding finance in the Ultimate report so the lower Buyer report remains clearly separated from the deepest financial and salvage checks.

How to use this information

MyPlateCheck combines available vehicle data into buyer-focused checks. Data can contain omissions or recording errors, so use it alongside the V5C and VIN, service history, seller evidence and a physical inspection. Resolve material inconsistencies before paying for a vehicle.

Learn before you buy

Guides related to this check.

Use these practical guides to understand what the data can mean and what to verify with the seller or vehicle.

Finance & ownershipWhy an Outstanding Finance Check Matters Before Buying a CarUnderstand why outstanding vehicle finance is a major used-car risk and what to do if a history check identifies a finance agreement.Read guide →Finance & ownershipWhat Happens If You Buy a Car With Outstanding Finance?Why unresolved finance can create serious buyer risk and what to verify before transferring money for a used car.Read guide →Finance & ownershipCan a Private Seller Sell a Car That Is Still on Finance?What buyers should understand when a private seller says finance will be settled as part of the vehicle sale.Read guide →

Questions buyers ask

Useful answers before you check.

Can I check outstanding finance for free?+

The free public vehicle check does not include outstanding finance. MyPlateCheck includes the finance check in Ultimate.

Should I buy a car with finance showing?+

Do not proceed until you understand the agreement and have reliable evidence that the finance will be settled correctly.

Does a valid MOT mean there is no finance?+

No. MOT status and outstanding finance are unrelated checks.

Start with the registration

Check the vehicle before you commit.

Run the free vehicle check first, then choose deeper history checks if the purchase needs them.