If you’re a motor trader or car dealer in the UK, you already know this: not every used car is a good buy.
Some deals look great on the outside but can turn into a nightmare later. That’s why I always say: don’t skip the vehicle history check.
It’s one of the easiest things you can do to protect your money, avoid risky cars, and build trust with your customers.
Let me show you how using trade vehicle checks as part of your daily business can help you go from risky buys to smart, profitable sales.
Why should you always check a car’s history?
In 2024, over 7.6 million used cars were sold in the UK. That’s a lot of cars moving around. But not all of them are safe or clean.
Here’s what I’ve learned from the trade:
Some cars are still on outstanding finance, which means the seller doesn’t even fully own it.
- Others are written off by insurance and fixed cheaply—looks good, but not always safe.
- Around 1 in 20 cars might have clocked mileage, meaning the numbers are rolled back to look newer.
- Some have even been stolen or are still listed as stolen.
- If you don’t check the history, you might end up with one of these. And if your customer finds out later? That’s your business reputation on the line.
What is a trade vehicle history check?
A trade vehicle check is a full background report on a used car but cheaper and customised for motor traders different from traditional car history checks. You get details like:
If there’s outstanding finance.
- If it was ever written off or stolen.
- The mileage history (to catch clocking)
- Previous owners history.
- MOT records.
- And even can check VIN match & car valuations sourced from automotive trusted industrial sources.
- Think of it like getting a full report card before you buy the car. You’ll know exactly what you’re dealing with.
To learn more about trade vehicle check services and its advantage for car dealership business Check out this full guide on Trade vehicle history checks.
Stats that show how risky it is to skip checks
Still thinking about skipping the check to save time or money? These numbers might change your mind:
Over 160,000 cars in the UK every year are suspected of mileage fraud.
- Thousands of cars are sold with outstanding finance, meaning the lender still owns the car.
- More than 1,500 cars are stolen each week in the UK. Some still end up back on the market.
- That’s why a quick, cheap check can save you hundreds—or even thousands—down the road.
How do I use trade checks in my business?
Here’s how we can keep things simple and safe when we are sourcing used car to stock:
Step 1: I find the car
This could be from an auction, Facebook group, dealer group, or a seller we know.
Step 2: I run a trade vehicle check
Use trusted trade vehicle history check services because it’s cheap and fast when compared to traditional vehicle checks. Their trade login gives us all the info I need in one place.
Step 3: I check the value
Once we know the car is clear, we compare prices using their built-in car valuation report..
Step 4: I inspect the car
We still do a proper walkaround. The history check helps, but you should always look under the bonnet too.
Step 5: I list the car with confidence
If everything checks out, we can prep and list the car—and show the history report to buyers.
How trade checks help you avoid business risks?
Running history checks isn’t just about being careful—it’s about being smart. Here’s how they protect your business:
1. Stop losing money on bad stock
If you accidentally buy a car with serious issues, your profit disappears. A check helps you avoid those cars in the first place.
2. Price your cars correctly
If you know the full history, you can set a fair price. That means no surprises and better margins.
3. Keep your customers happy
Customers feel confident when you can show them the car’s full background. It builds trust and makes selling easier.
4. Avoid legal trouble
Selling a car that’s stolen or under finance (even by mistake) can lead to fines, returns, or worse. Checks help you stay on the right side of the law.
Customers expect more in 2025
Buyers today do their research before contacting you. They compare prices, read reviews, and ask for proof of the car’s history.
When you can show them a clean, verified car history check, they’re more likely to buy. Even if a car has some history (like Cat N), being upfront helps you explain the value and build trust.
This is how top traders are closing deals faster—and getting better reviews that bring in more leads.
Final thoughts: don’t leave your business to chance
Every car you buy is either money made or money lost. That choice starts with what you know about the vehicle.
A trade vehicle check isn’t just a tool—it’s a habit that keeps your business safe, smart, and trusted.
Make it part of your buying process. Sign-up to your trade portal. Run the check. Sell with confidence.
The more you know, the better you trade.
