Getting a "fail" result on a vehicle history check can be alarming, but it doesn't always mean you should walk away. Understanding why cars fail helps you make informed decisions.
Common Reasons for Failing a Check
1. Outstanding Finance
What it means: Money is still owed on the car. The finance company legally owns it until paid off.
Should you worry? Yes – but it's solvable. The seller needs to settle the finance before sale, or you can pay the finance company directly and give the remainder to the seller.
Action: Ask for a settlement figure. Don't complete without proof the finance is cleared.
2. Insurance Write-Off (Cat N or Cat S)
What it means: The car was previously written off by an insurance company due to damage.
Should you worry? Depends on the circumstances. A well-repaired Cat N might be fine; a poorly-repaired Cat S could be dangerous.
Action: Ask for repair documentation, get an independent inspection, and factor in reduced value.
3. Stolen Vehicle Marker
What it means: The car is recorded as stolen on police databases.
Should you worry? Absolutely. Walk away immediately.
Action: Do not buy. Report to police if you believe the seller is knowingly selling stolen goods.
4. Mileage Discrepancy
What it means: Recorded mileage has decreased or shows suspicious patterns across history.
Should you worry? Yes – this suggests the car has been clocked (mileage wound back).
Action: Ask for explanation. Check MOT history for mileage records. Usually best to walk away.
5. Plate Changes
What it means: The registration has been changed at some point.
Should you worry? Not necessarily. People legitimately buy private plates. But it can sometimes be used to hide a car's past.
Action: Check the full history under all known registrations. Verify VIN hasn't changed.
6. Scrapped/Exported Marker
What it means: Records show the car was scrapped or exported.
Should you worry? Yes – if the car is in front of you but recorded as scrapped, something's wrong.
Action: This could indicate cloning or fraud. Walk away and consider reporting.
7. VIC (Vehicle Identity Check) Marker
What it means: The car has been subject to identity verification, usually after being written off.
Should you worry? It means the car passed identity checks after being salvaged. Not necessarily bad, but indicates previous write-off.
Action: Check the write-off category and repair history.
When a "Fail" Isn't a Deal-Breaker
Some fails can be acceptable if properly addressed:
- Outstanding finance – If seller agrees to settle before completion
- Cat N write-off – If repairs are documented and independently verified
- Previous plate change – If history is clean under all registrations
When to Walk Away
Some fails should always end the sale:
- Stolen marker – No legitimate reason for this
- Mileage discrepancy – Evidence of fraud
- Scrapped marker – Car shouldn't exist
- Cat A or B write-off – Should never be on the road
- Seller refuses to address issues – Hiding something
The Value of Early Checks
Running a vehicle check before viewing saves time and money. If there are issues, you can:
- Decide not to view
- Prepare questions for the seller
- Negotiate price based on history
- Know what to verify in person
Check any car before viewing for just £9.99.
