Used electric cars are attracting more attention from dealers, according to new figures from the Motorway National Car Index. The number of electric Vehicles (EVs) sold through Motorway rose 115% year on year, while the average price received by EV sellers increased 6%. The Tesla Model 3 also topped Motorway’s list of its most in-demand … Continue reading Used EV Sales More Than Double: How Are Car Buyers and Sellers Affected?
Lost V5C? How To Replace Your Car Documents
A lost V5C can be a headache, especially if you need to sell or tax your car. Fortunately, replacing a missing V5C log book is relatively quick and inexpensive, while many other lost car documents – including MOT certificates, insurance documents and tax reminders – can now be replaced or accessed online. This guide explains … Continue reading Lost V5C? How To Replace Your Car Documents
Carwow vs Motorway: Which Is Better for Selling Your Car?
Selling a car online has become far more common in the UK over the last few years. Instead of arranging private viewings or negotiating part exchange offers at a dealership, many drivers now use online platforms such as Carwow and Motorway that connect sellers directly with professional car dealers. Both platforms allow drivers to upload … Continue reading Carwow vs Motorway: Which Is Better for Selling Your Car?
How the Iran Crisis Is Affecting UK Used Car Prices in 2026
The global situation in Iran might feel far removed from the UK car market—but in reality, it’s already having a noticeable impact on used car prices across the country. From rising fuel costs to shifting buyer behaviour, the knock-on effects are changing what cars people want—and how much they’re willing to pay. Here’s what’s happening, … Continue reading How the Iran Crisis Is Affecting UK Used Car Prices in 2026
Spring Statement 2026: How It Impacts UK Motorists
The Spring Statement delivered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves on 3 March 2026 may not have introduced dramatic new motoring taxes overnight, but it confirmed several policies that will affect drivers across the UK in the coming years. From fuel duty increases and rising car tax to possible new road-charging systems, the government’s economic update signals … Continue reading Spring Statement 2026: How It Impacts UK Motorists
VED Increases From April 2026: Full UK Guide to New Road Tax Rates
From 1 April 2026, the UK government will introduce a new set of Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) / road tax increases that will affect the vast majority of drivers — including petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicle owners. These changes form part of the government’s ongoing emissions-linked taxation policy, and most motorists will see their … Continue reading VED Increases From April 2026: Full UK Guide to New Road Tax Rates
Is a Car Taxed, MOT’d and Insured? How to Check All Three
Updated 3 November 2026. Before you drive a car, it needs three things: vehicle tax, a valid MOT (once it's over three years old) and insurance. Two of the three can be checked by anyone, for free, from the registration number. Insurance is different: the public check, still widely known as askMID, only lets you … Continue reading Is a Car Taxed, MOT’d and Insured? How to Check All Three
Autumn Statement 2025: How New Motoring Rules Affect You
The Autumn Statement 2025 brings some of the biggest motoring changes in years. Higher Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), future pay-per-mile charges for EVs, Motability reforms, fuel duty updates and new luxury car tax rules will affect almost every UK driver. This guide explains the main announcements. Car Tax (VED) Changes from April 2025 and April … Continue reading Autumn Statement 2025: How New Motoring Rules Affect You
Electric Car Tax 2026: What EVs Pay Now and From 2028
Updated 15 October 2026 with the current GOV.UK rates and the confirmed pay-per-mile charge from 2028. Electric cars no longer go tax-free. Since 1 April 2025, electric car tax (Vehicle Excise Duty, or VED) has applied to every electric car on UK roads, and from April 2028 a new pay-per-mile charge will be added on … Continue reading Electric Car Tax 2026: What EVs Pay Now and From 2028
What is ADAS? Everything You Need to Know
If you’ve ever wondered what is ADAS and why it’s talked about so much in modern motoring, you’re not alone. ADAS — Advanced Driver Assistance Systems — are reshaping the future of road safety by helping drivers avoid accidents, stay alert, and even steer or brake automatically. From everyday hatchbacks to high-end models, this technology … Continue reading What is ADAS? Everything You Need to Know
ADR in the Car Industry: Why It Can Be So Important
Buying and maintaining a car is a significant investment, so it’s essential to know your rights if something goes wrong. That’s where ADR — Alternative Dispute Resolution — comes in. ADR provides a clear, structured way to resolve disagreements without the time, stress, and cost of going to court. In this article, we’ll explain what … Continue reading ADR in the Car Industry: Why It Can Be So Important
EV Charger Types: A Complete Guide for UK Drivers
As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain popularity, understanding the different EV charger types has become essential for drivers. Whether you’re charging at home, on the go, or replacing your existing unit, knowing your options helps you charge safely, quickly, and efficiently. Let’s explore the main EV charger types, how their electrical specifications vary, where … Continue reading EV Charger Types: A Complete Guide for UK Drivers
Used Cars Near Me: How to Find the Best Local Deals
If you’ve ever searched “used cars near me”, you’re not alone — it’s one of the most common phrases UK drivers type into Google when starting their car-buying journey. Buying a used car locally has clear benefits: it’s more convenient, lets you inspect vehicles in person, and helps you compare prices in your area. But … Continue reading Used Cars Near Me: How to Find the Best Local Deals
E5 Petrol Secrets: Why Thousands of UK Drivers Love It
E5 petrol has become a bit of a talking point among UK drivers, especially since E10 took over as the standard fuel at most petrol stations. Containing up to 5% renewable ethanol, E5 was the country’s go-to petrol for years, and many motorists still prefer it today for its compatibility with older engines, smoother performance, … Continue reading E5 Petrol Secrets: Why Thousands of UK Drivers Love It
What Insurance Group Is My Car? Car Insurance Groups Explained
Updated 22 October 2026. Every car sold in the UK has an insurance group from 1 to 50: group 1 is the cheapest to insure and group 50 the most expensive. To find yours, enter the registration in our free car specs check, which shows a car's insurance group with its engine, performance and running … Continue reading What Insurance Group Is My Car? Car Insurance Groups Explained
Cat N Car Meaning: What It Means and Should You Buy One?
Updated 22 October 2026. Cat N means a car has been written off by an insurer because of non-structural damage. The repair would have cost more than the insurer was willing to pay, but the car's structure, its chassis and crash protection, wasn't damaged. A Cat N car can be repaired and driven again, and … Continue reading Cat N Car Meaning: What It Means and Should You Buy One?
Hidden Maintenance Costs of Used Cars You Should Know
The hidden maintenance costs of used cars are one of the biggest factors buyers overlook in 2025. With new car prices still high and waiting lists long, second-hand vehicles remain in strong demand. But while the purchase price may seem like a bargain, unexpected upkeep expenses can quickly creep up after the sale In fact, … Continue reading Hidden Maintenance Costs of Used Cars You Should Know
Electric Car Grant 2025: Get Up to £3,750 Off a New EV
The UK government has launched a new electric vehicle (EV) grant, offering up to £3,750 off the price of a new electric car. If you're considering making the switch from petrol or diesel to a greener ride, now is the perfect time. Here’s everything you need to know about the new EV discount scheme, who … Continue reading Electric Car Grant 2025: Get Up to £3,750 Off a New EV
Buying a Car in 2025: What UK Buyers Need to Know
Thinking about buying a car in 2025? You’re not alone. With changes to UK interest rates, more affordable electric vehicles (EVs), and a shifting used car market, many drivers are wondering:“Is now the right time to buy?” Whether you're after your first car, upgrading to an EV, or eyeing a solid used deal, this guide … Continue reading Buying a Car in 2025: What UK Buyers Need to Know
The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Used Electric Car
Electric cars (EVs) are no longer a futuristic novelty—they’re now a practical, eco-friendly choice for everyday driving. But buying a used electric car requires a different checklist than traditional petrol or diesel vehicles. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything UK buyers need to consider—from battery health and charging compatibility to range checks … Continue reading The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Used Electric Car
What Are My Legal Rights When Buying a Used Car?
Whether you’re buying from a dealership or a private seller, it’s essential to know your rights when purchasing a used car. Problems like hidden damage, false mileage, or undisclosed write-offs can leave you out of pocket—unless you know how the law protects you. In this article, we’ll break down your legal rights when buying a … Continue reading What Are My Legal Rights When Buying a Used Car?
Is GAP Insurance Worth It in the UK? Complete Guide
Thinking about getting GAP insurance but unsure if it's really worth the cost? In this guide, we’ll break down what GAP covers, when you need it, and when you can probably skip it. Whether you're buying, leasing, or financing a car in the UK, this article will help you make an informed decision. What Is … Continue reading Is GAP Insurance Worth It in the UK? Complete Guide
How will drivers be affected by the Spring Statement?
Here’s a look at the 10 most important announcements that impact drivers from the Chancellor's 2025 Spring Statement. 1. Fuel Duty Freeze Extended – A Relief for Car Drivers The government has extended the freeze on fuel duty for another year. This means fuel prices won’t go up due to higher taxes, providing financial relief … Continue reading How will drivers be affected by the Spring Statement?
New VED Rates for Cars in 2025: What You Need to Know
Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) for cars will change from April 2025. Whether you're a current car owner or planning to purchase a new vehicle, these changes will impact how much you pay for road tax. In this post, we’ll break down the new VED rates for cars, explain what’s changing, and highlight how these changes … Continue reading New VED Rates for Cars in 2025: What You Need to Know
Salvage Check: Why it’s so important for car buyers
Undertaking a salvage check on a car you're thinking of buying is very important. It can reveal a hidden past that the seller may not be transparent about, or even aware of. A salvage check comes as standard with a Total Car Check Silver or Gold Check. What is a salvage car? A salvage car … Continue reading Salvage Check: Why it’s so important for car buyers
Common UK car scams: How to Spot and Avoid Them
Buying or selling a car in the UK can be an exciting experience, but it’s important to be aware of the common car scams that could cost you money or cause significant issues. Whether you're purchasing a used car or selling one, knowing how to identify car scams is essential to protect yourself. In this … Continue reading Common UK car scams: How to Spot and Avoid Them
What to do in the event of a manufacturer recall
A manufacturer recall is a safety measure that vehicle manufacturers take to address defects or issues affecting vehicle safety or performance. Manufacturers initiate recalls when they identify a problem through internal testing, customer complaints, or regulatory investigations. The purpose of a recall is to protect drivers, prevent accidents, and minimise legal liability for the manufacturer. … Continue reading What to do in the event of a manufacturer recall
Overhaul of the UK road tax system?
Registering for road tax is a prerequisite if you want to drive in the UK. But many drivers are set to see some big changes to road tax in 2025. There's also organisations putting pressure on Government to completely overhaul the system and replace it with something different. We explain what to look out for. … Continue reading Overhaul of the UK road tax system?
What will the new Government do for car buyers?
We have a new Prime Minister, Keir Starmer and the Labour Party are now in power after 14 years in opposition. So what will this big change bring with it for car buyers? We assess what the landscape may look like over the next 5 years of Government. Get the UK's most popular and best … Continue reading What will the new Government do for car buyers?
How to buy and assign a private number plate
We understand. Your vehicle is your prize possession so it's only natural you want to personalise it. Follow this concise guide to go from standard plate to private plate in no time. You can check the number plate history of any UK registered vehicle on Total Car Check. 1. Number plate research and planning: Budget: … Continue reading How to buy and assign a private number plate
How to find your perfect car
Total Car Check has launched a free new service that helps buyers find their next perfect car that won't be available anywhere else. Instant Match (IM) is a new in-report service exclusive to the Total Car Check website and app, powered by Motorway. 5,000+ dealers that purchase their stock using Motorway's marketplace can now sell cars … Continue reading How to find your perfect car
Make sure you get a car valuation before you buy
After the festive period leaves us there will be many hunting for a new vehicle in January. Our message to car buyers this Christmas is that getting an accurate car valuation is extremely important. If you pay too much for a car this winter it can really hit your wallet both now and in the future … Continue reading Make sure you get a car valuation before you buy
Write-off checks – why they are so important
Undertaking a write-off check on a used car is crucial before you buy. But why? This Q&A blog provides a complete guide to write-offs outlining everything drivers need to know. Click on the links below to navigate to the answers: What is a write-off? Why is it important to check? How do I check to … Continue reading Write-off checks – why they are so important
Cars on Finance: How to sell and profit
You can sell cars on finance. Thousands of people do it in the UK and it's easier than you think. So if you need some extra cash or are looking to move into a new car then we set out the steps for selling a financed car below. Understanding your finance product Secured finance Personal … Continue reading Cars on Finance: How to sell and profit
Electric cars remain the future
If you look at any news recently relating to electric cars the tone seems to be negative. Stories continue to be reeled out about how public chargers are unreliable and the fact there aren't enough of them. Then last week the Prime Minister announced that the Government's policy to ban the sale of new petrol … Continue reading Electric cars remain the future
How to sell your car
Now is still a very good time to sell your car. Used car prices are on average 25% higher than they were three years ago for equivalent vehicles, with huge demand for certain makes and models. We run through some useful online tools and the options you have to sell your car. Quick links below: … Continue reading How to sell your car
ULEZ and Clean Air Zones: A Complete UK Guide (2026)
Updated 19 October 2026. London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) now covers every London borough, and cities from Birmingham to Glasgow run their own clean air or low emission zones. This guide explains how ULEZ works, which cars are compliant, what it costs, how it differs from the Congestion Charge, and where the other UK … Continue reading ULEZ and Clean Air Zones: A Complete UK Guide (2026)
Free tools to help you buy a great car
At Total Car Check we have been working hard to provide free tools and insights that can help anyone find a great car for the right price. Below we explain the top 3 tools we provide for free that can help you research and find your next car safely. 1. Total Car Check's excellent rated … Continue reading Free tools to help you buy a great car
Car finance debt – the support that lenders can offer
Last week the Bank of England raised interest rates to 5% in response to prices rising by a further 8.7% in May. Many motorists relying on car finance may now be facing financial difficulties as their mortgage or rent payments increase. We explain why this action has been taken and outline the help lenders must … Continue reading Car finance debt – the support that lenders can offer
Why are car insurance premiums on the rise?
The cost of car insurance premiums are set to rise by 14% in 2023 and prices will not stabilise until 2025. This is the assessment of consultancy firm Oxbow Partners in a new report they have just published. So what's behind this trend and how is car insurance priced in the first place? We explain … Continue reading Why are car insurance premiums on the rise?
Road tax now and how it could change
The road tax system in the UK has changed over the years and is set to do so again soon. We provide a full run down of how road tax works in the UK, the current rates and what is on the horizon. What is road tax? Road tax in the UK is formally known … Continue reading Road tax now and how it could change
How to Check if a Car Is Stolen Before You Buy It
Updated 3 November 2026. Buying a stolen car is one of the most expensive mistakes you can make. The police can take the car back, it goes to its rightful owner or their insurer, and you're left with nothing unless you can recover the money from the seller. This guide shows how to check whether … Continue reading How to Check if a Car Is Stolen Before You Buy It
New Consumer Duty and its impact on car buyers
In the summer a new Consumer Duty will be introduced that will affect the way motor vehicles are sold. We cover what these new rules are below and what car buyers should expect from dealerships and lenders. What is the new Consumer Duty? It's new regulations that the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has introduced to … Continue reading New Consumer Duty and its impact on car buyers
Outstanding Car Finance: A Complete Guide to Buying Safely
Updated 19 October 2026. Outstanding finance is one of the costliest problems you can inherit with a used car. If the seller still owes money on a hire purchase or PCP agreement, the car belongs to the lender, not to them, and it can be taken from you. This guide explains what outstanding finance is, … Continue reading Outstanding Car Finance: A Complete Guide to Buying Safely
Will new Net Zero plans help car buyers?
The Government has recently launched another round of measures to help transition the UK towards Net Zero. We look at what impact these will have on car buyers. Total Car Check is the only vehicle check provider to give you up to 15 fields of free electric vehicle (EV) data in our reports. Including range, … Continue reading Will new Net Zero plans help car buyers?
How to Spot a Clocked Car Using Its MOT History
Updated 3 November 2026. A clocked car is one whose mileage has been wound back to make it look less used and worth more. It's quick and cheap to do with equipment sold online, and it can add thousands to a car's price. The good news is that every MOT records the mileage, so a … Continue reading How to Spot a Clocked Car Using Its MOT History
Celebrating a year of Total Car Check enhancements
At Total Car Check we are always innovating to bring new helpful features and data to our users. This is the way it has been since we disrupted the vehicle check market over 10 years ago. Our customer first approach means that if we can provide something for free then we will. That is one … Continue reading Celebrating a year of Total Car Check enhancements
Car Cloning: How to Tell If a Car Is Cloned, and What to Do If Yours Is
Car cloning is one of the most effective ways criminals sell stolen cars, and a history check alone can't catch it. This guide explains what cloning and ringing are, how common cloning has become, the five checks that expose a clone when you view a car, and what to do if your own car's registration … Continue reading Car Cloning: How to Tell If a Car Is Cloned, and What to Do If Yours Is
Government considers changes to MOT
The Government has recently launched a consultation asking for feedback on proposed changes to the annual MOT test. We provide some background about the MOT and look at what is being put forward. What is an MOT? The annual MOT test has been in place since the 1960s - named after the Government Ministry of … Continue reading Government considers changes to MOT
How is low car production affecting used car buyers?
With news out last week that UK car production in 2022 hit a 66 year low we look at how this is affecting the UK used car market and ultimately what it means for car buyers. What happened in 2022? UK The trade body for automotive manufacturers, SMMT announced that in 2022 775,014 cars were … Continue reading How is low car production affecting used car buyers?
How to use the Total Car Check app to check a vehicle
By the end of 2022 the Total Car Check app had been downloaded over 1 million times on Google Play. This milestone is also fast approaching on the App Store (over 850,000 downloads). Below we outline how the app can empower your car buying journey with insights that are too important to ignore. Our products … Continue reading How to use the Total Car Check app to check a vehicle
Buy a car without falling victim to scammers
Right now conditions are ripe in the UK for car criminals and fraudsters to prosper. Used cars remain pretty expensive and many of us have less money to spend on a new vehicle. Criminals prey on financial vulnerabilities. In this blog we look at a recent publicised example of a car scam and provide our … Continue reading Buy a car without falling victim to scammers
Total Car Check Adds EV Data to Free Vehicle Reports
News Release Total Car Check (TCC) has enhanced its vehicle history products by adding a suite of electric vehicle (EV) data to assist used EV buyers. The vehicle history check provider has added practical EV data fields to its free, silver and gold check reports. The information can be found whenever a user enters the … Continue reading Total Car Check Adds EV Data to Free Vehicle Reports
Stay mobile and save money
If you need to stay mobile and save money during the cost of living crisis then what are your options? We consider these below based on whether you own, finance or lease a vehicle currently. We also set out alternative vehicle usage approaches that could help you save or make money. We cannot stress the … Continue reading Stay mobile and save money
UK used car market healthy but unpredictable
In this blog we provide a short run through of what is happening with used car prices. Our conclusion is that the UK used car market remains in good health currently. But what happens next is unpredictable... Remember: If you are looking to buy a used car then try using Total Car Check at all … Continue reading UK used car market healthy but unpredictable
New Motoring Laws and Charges UK Drivers Must Know
Lets face it, no-one likes a nasty surprise while they are behind the wheel. So make sure you get the lowdown on these new motoring laws and charges that every driver should be aware of. New clean air zones We wrote about clean air zones (CAZ) earlier this year. They are essentially local authority initiatives … Continue reading New Motoring Laws and Charges UK Drivers Must Know
Total Car Check launches free local vehicle sales tool
Total Car Check is always looking to introduce new data and tools for free to help assist vehicle buyers. Last year we provided over 41 million free checks covering over 11 million unique vehicles. We are therefore excited about the introduction of a powerful new tool we have added to our free check, available right … Continue reading Total Car Check launches free local vehicle sales tool
UK fuel prices fall but higher prices are here to stay
Over the last few days you may have noticed that petrol and diesel prices have started to fall. The members of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) have in recent weeks increased oil production. This has sent the wholesale price of petrol down from £1 to 80p per litre. A Total Car Check … Continue reading UK fuel prices fall but higher prices are here to stay
5 Essential Rules to Avoid Car Buying Scams
Car buying scams are on the rise, fueled by the cost of living crisis. With used car prices still high and many buyers on tight budgets, fraudsters posing as dealers or brokers lure people with promises of cheap vehicles, take their money, and disappear. This is just one example of the many scams circulating in … Continue reading 5 Essential Rules to Avoid Car Buying Scams
The end of the plug-in car grant
On 14 June 2022 the UK Government ended, "with immediate effect", grants worth £1,500 to subsidise electric cars. The funding will instead be "refocussed" towards improving the UK's charging infrastructure and on providing grants for other vehicle types. How did the plug-in car grant work? The grant was provided to motor retailers and manufacturers which … Continue reading The end of the plug-in car grant
Are you ready to go electric?
By 2030 there will be no new fully petrol or diesel cars or vans sold in the UK. This landmark commitment made by the Government in 2020 has helped to accelerate the shift towards the use of electric vehicles (EVs). 22% of all new car registrations to date this year were EVs and there are … Continue reading Are you ready to go electric?
What is WLTP and why does it matter?
WLTP stands for the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Testing Procedure. It is a global standard for testing the fuel economy and emission levels of vehicles. It was introduced in 2017 and extended to all cars and vans from September 2019. Why was it introduced? Since the early 1990s a New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) test … Continue reading What is WLTP and why does it matter?
Top 5 car money saving tips
In these difficult and costly times everyone is looking for ways to save money to weather the current cost of living storm. At Total Car Check we know the risks and costs associated with buying a used car. But on top of the initial purchase UK motorists spend on average £3,500 a year running their … Continue reading Top 5 car money saving tips
The agency model – how will it affect car buyers?
For a few years now a new approach has beckoned that is set to change the way vehicles are sold. It is called 'the agency model' and could mean that soon if you buy, finance or lease a new car the experience could be quite different. In fact some manufacturers have already moved into agency … Continue reading The agency model – how will it affect car buyers?
Finance and Insurance by Dealers: Key Things to Know
Finance and insurance are now a standard part of car dealership sales. If you’ve bought a car in recent years, you’ve almost certainly been offered them—whether through finance packages or add-on insurance products. Dealers earn extra income from these sales through commissions paid by lenders, brokers, and insurers, giving them a strong incentive to push … Continue reading Finance and Insurance by Dealers: Key Things to Know
FCA’s new Consumer Duty: Raising Car Buyer Standards
There aren't too many people that get excited by new rules and regulation. But when they provide helpful protections and raise standards for consumers they are so very important. Cue the Financial Conduct Authority's (FCA's) new Consumer Duty which is due to come into force in July 2022. What is the new Consumer Duty? It's … Continue reading FCA’s new Consumer Duty: Raising Car Buyer Standards
New Car Registrations Drop 14%: The Impact On You
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has reported that new car registrations in the UK fell by 14.3% to 243,479 in March on last year. Whilst the fall is largely attributed to the lack of new car supply there are also concerns that the current cost of living crisis may be leading many … Continue reading New Car Registrations Drop 14%: The Impact On You
New EV Charger Plan: What UK Drivers Need to Know
In 2021 a quarter of all new vehicles sold in the UK were fully electric, compared to just 2% in 2020. The transition from petrol and diesel to electric is happening at pace. This is necessary because by 2030 all new cars and vans sold must not emit any carbon dioxide at the tailpipe. Barriers … Continue reading New EV Charger Plan: What UK Drivers Need to Know
Why you need to be insured to test drive
Test driving is a really important process for any car buyer. It’s the only way of checking if a car runs and performs as it should and gives you the driving experience you are looking for. But even though a test drive may only last for 15 minutes it is very important that you are insured … Continue reading Why you need to be insured to test drive
How does the 2022 Spring Statement affect motorists?
The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak unveiled his Spring Statement in the House of Commons today. We summarise below the key measures that have been announced that impact on motorists: Fuel duty cut by 5p per litre The change takes place from 6pm tonight (23 March) and will remain until March 2023. The Government … Continue reading How does the 2022 Spring Statement affect motorists?
Spring Budget 2022: Will Motorists Get a Government Lifeline?
On 23 March the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak will give what is arguably the most difficult budget statement for many years that the Government has had to make. The dilemma for the Chancellor - how can Government pay for the £300bn+ it has borrowed so far to tackle Covid-19 given the current cost … Continue reading Spring Budget 2022: Will Motorists Get a Government Lifeline?
Motoring scams – March 2022
There are lots of transactions that need to be set up when buying a vehicle and keeping it on the road. These provide opportunities for fraudsters to scam drivers out of their money. Total Car Check covers five current scams prevalent in March 2022 that car buyers and motorists should be vigilant of: Vehicle tax … Continue reading Motoring scams – March 2022
Navigating the current car market for buyers
The car market is a difficult one for anyone to navigate these days. Many people that are either nearing the end of their current car finance or lease agreement - or who have run their motor into the ground - are finding it troublesome to understand which fuel type, make and model to go for … Continue reading Navigating the current car market for buyers
Stolen Car Cameras: CCTV and ANPR in the UK
The UK has the largest CCTV network in Europe, which has significantly helped prevent crime over the years. This network also forms a central pillar of the country’s crime prevention strategy. Context Surveillance technology continues to grow and evolve. For example, cameras have become more cost-effective, so consumers increasingly use them to protect their property … Continue reading Stolen Car Cameras: CCTV and ANPR in the UK
Will modernising vehicle standards prevent clocking?
Clocking, the informal term for rolling back the mileage on a vehicle's odometer. In the UK adjusting a vehicle's mileage itself is not a crime, but selling a vehicle with adjusted mileage is. If you purchase a clocked car then at best it will be worth much less than what you paid for it, and … Continue reading Will modernising vehicle standards prevent clocking?
EU proposes new measures on the sharing of car data
The European Commission (EC) has published proposals for a new European Data Act which aims to ensure that a wider range of stakeholders can be granted access to product usage data in order to foster competition and innovation. The legislation will also give more control to consumers to determine how data generated by their usage … Continue reading EU proposes new measures on the sharing of car data
Car buyers warned of scams ahead of plate change
As buyers look to purchase 2022 plate vehicles over the next few weeks an influx of used cars will come to market. Although this often provides a great opportunity to get hold of good quality stock buyers are being warned to be vigilant of the common scams in operation that could be used to defraud … Continue reading Car buyers warned of scams ahead of plate change
Used BNPL for car insurances? What You Should Know
This Valentine’s Day, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has delivered some welcome protection for consumers. If you’ve recently visited a dealership and used BNPL services like Klarna, Clearpay, Laybuy, or Openbuy to pay for vehicle add-ons—such as extended warranties, GAP insurance, or similar—you could receive money back. In fact, the FCA’s action isn’t limited to … Continue reading Used BNPL for car insurances? What You Should Know
MOT Photos at Test: What DVSA’s New Anti-Fraud Rule Means
Published November 2026. Since 3 August 2026, MOT testers in England, Scotland and Wales have been able t photograph a car during its test and upload the picture to DVSA's MOT system. It's designed to stop "ghost MOTs", where a certificate is issued for a car that was never there. Some reports say photos are … Continue reading MOT Photos at Test: What DVSA’s New Anti-Fraud Rule Means
Buying a Car on Facebook Marketplace: How to Avoid Scams
Published November 2026. Facebook Marketplace is one of the easiest places to find a cheap car, and one of the easiest places for criminals to sell one that isn't theirs. Purchase scams hit a record £118 million in losses in 2025, and Lloyds Bank says vehicles were the most reported purchase scam that year, with … Continue reading Buying a Car on Facebook Marketplace: How to Avoid Scams
Car Written Off? How Insurers Value It and How to Challenge the Offer
Published November 2026. When your car is written off, your insurer pays its market value: what it was worth just before the accident, not what you paid or what a new one costs. Insurers don't always get that figure right. In 2025 the Financial Conduct Authority said about 270,000 motorists would share around £200 million … Continue reading Car Written Off? How Insurers Value It and How to Challenge the Offer
Cat A and Cat B Write-Offs Explained, and Can a Scrapped Car Come Back?
Published November 2026. Most write-offs you'll see for sale are Cat S or Cat N: damaged cars that can legally be repaired and driven again. Cat A and Cat B are different. They're the most serious categories, and those cars should never be on the road again. Here's what each category means, what happens to … Continue reading Cat A and Cat B Write-Offs Explained, and Can a Scrapped Car Come Back?
How to Check a V5C Logbook Is Genuine
Published November 2026. A V5C logbook is the first thing to ask for when you look at a used car, and fake or stolen logbooks are one of the oldest tricks in the book. A genuine V5C doesn't prove the seller owns the car, but a fake one is a near certainty that something is … Continue reading How to Check a V5C Logbook Is Genuine
What Is a VIN? Where to Find It and Why It Must Match the V5C
Published November 2026. The vehicle identification number, or VIN, is a car's fingerprint. Number plates can change, but the VIN stays with the car for life, which is why checking it is one of the best ways to spot a stolen or cloned car. Here's what a VIN is, how to read it, where to … Continue reading What Is a VIN? Where to Find It and Why It Must Match the V5C
Keyless Car Theft in 2026: The Most Stolen Cars and How to Protect Yours
Published November 2026. Car thieves rarely need your keys any more. With electronic kits sold online, they can open and start many keyless cars in under a minute, often without a mark on the car. Here are the latest figures, the most stolen models, how the attacks work, what actually stops them, and how to … Continue reading Keyless Car Theft in 2026: The Most Stolen Cars and How to Protect Yours
How to Check a Car’s Service History (and Spot Fake Stamps)
Published November 2026. A full service history is one of the best signs a used car has been looked after, and it adds real value. That's exactly why service histories are faked. This guide explains where to find a car's service records, how to check they're genuine, and what a missing history means. Paper books … Continue reading How to Check a Car’s Service History (and Spot Fake Stamps)
Buying an Imported or Grey Import Car: What to Check
Published November 2026. Imported cars can be a great buy: Japanese models the UK never had, well-kept cars from drier climates, or a better specification for the money. But a car's history before it reached the UK is much harder to check, and that's where the risks lie. Here's how imports are registered, what can … Continue reading Buying an Imported or Grey Import Car: What to Check
How to Tell if a Car Is an Ex-Taxi or Private Hire Car
Published November 2026. Ex-taxis and ex-private hire cars are common on the used market, and there's nothing wrong with buying one if the price reflects how hard it has worked. The problem is buying one without knowing. A five-year-old private hire car can easily have covered well over 100,000 miles, much of it in stop-start … Continue reading How to Tell if a Car Is an Ex-Taxi or Private Hire Car