Wheeler Dealers host Mike Brewer has urged all second-hand car owners considering buying or selling a vehicle to check number plates online for a vital reason. The presenter of the classic car restoration series said motorists should use online checking tools to look up key information before parting with their money.
Detailed information on previous MOT tests is available to the public meaning road users can thoroughly analyse models before turning up to buy, Looking up information on what advisories a car received at their last MOT is also crucial and could make road users reconsider going ahead with a purchase. Major mechanical problems could indicate the car is on its last legs and may not be worth the money.
Mike previously said that “service history is so important” when looking at used cars and should never be ignored.
He previously told Car Dealer Magazine: “Check it online, you can also use these apps now where you can check the registration plate online, see its previous MOT history, any advisories it had done.”
Motorists can check their number plate details using a variety of free and paid for online tools.
WeBuyAnyCar’s online reg plate checker is one of the most popular while HPI car check and InstantCarCheck are also other options.
A recent analysis from AA Cars found that one in four UK drivers have bought a car online without viewing it in person first.
A recent survey of over 10,000 motorists showed the number of drivers buying unseen models has increased from 21% to 24% over the past 12 months.
However, AA Cars stressed road users should use the government’s free MOT history checker and consider paying for a vehicle history check.
James Hosking, Director of AA Cars said: “Many people still prefer visiting a dealership in person, believing it offers better value and reduces the risk of buying a car with mechanical issues or cosmetic flaws.
“However, more consumers are now growing confident in purchasing cars online.
“Shopping online offers greater convenience and access to a wider variety of options, without the need to visit multiple forecourts.”
