What is a HPI check?

When buying a used car, there are some things that could catch you out if you’re not careful. How do you know if the car you’re looking at is as the seller describes? This is where a HPI check comes in.

A HPI check will tell you if the car you’re viewing has been stolen, scrapped or written off – among a ton of other data. Here’s everything you need to know about a HPI check.

What is a HPI check?

A HPI check gives you key information about a car’s history, and is super helpful if you’re thinking about buying a used car. It’s named after the Hire Purchase Investigation, one of the first companies to offer such checks. These days, lots of companies do them, but ‘HPI check’ has stuck as the go-to term for any vehicle history report.

What does a HPI check cover?

A HPI is a valuable tool that can tell you a lot about the history of the used car you’ve got your eye on. Here’s what a HPI check will cover:

Reported stolen

Hundreds of cars are stolen every day, and the unscrupulous folk who steal them could look to sell them on. If you buy a car that’s on the police national database as stolen, they will seize it and you’ll likely lose your money.

Insurance write-off

If the car you’re looking at has been damaged in the past, the insurance company may have declared it as a write-off. If this is the case, you’ll need to see evidence that the car was repaired to a safe standard.

Outstanding finance

If a car you’re interested in still has outstanding finance, this will need to be paid before you buy it. If the car finance isn’t settled, you could be liable for the debt and the finance company may even repossess the car.

Previous owners

HPI can tell you how many previous owners a car has had, courtesy of the DVLA database.

Scrapped vehicles

As with Cat A and B insurance write-offs, it’s best to avoid cars that have been scrapped and shouldn’t even be on the road.

Number plate changes

This info comes from DVLA records too. Lots of cars have private number plates, but it’s worth checking they’re legit and not hiding anything shady in the car’s past.

VIN/chassis numbers check

Lets you confirm that the recorded Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and chassis number match those on the actual car.

Mileage

HPI recorded the car’s existing mileage.

Imported or exported

Cars built for foreign markets are tricky to insure or fix. And if a car’s been officially exported, it shouldn’t even be for sale here.

MOT history

You’ll get a full breakdown of the car’s MOT record, including current status, past fails, and any advisory notes you’ll want to know about.

Road tax/fuel costs

This is handy for older cars on the emissions-based road tax system, plus you’ll see an estimate of yearly fuel costs based on 12,000 miles.

Safety recall data

If the car’s ever had a manufacturer recall for a safety issue, it’ll show up here too.

What doesn’t a HPI check tell you?

A HPI check won’t tell you if the car has been damaged in an accident if it wasn’t reported to the insurance company, or if it wasn’t written off. It’s worth asking the seller if it’s ever been involved in an accident.

In case they aren’t honest you can pay for a pre-sale inspection. This involves a professional mechanic coming to look over the car for signs of accident damage or poor repairs.

A HPI check also won’t tell you any information about the previous owners in terms of addresses or contact details, but this won’t tell you anything about the car anyway.

The car’s service history won’t come up on a HPI check, so it’s worth checking that the seller has the service book for the car to make sure it’s been maintained.

Where can I get a HPI check?

There are many websites that offer HPI checks. www.hpicheck.com is the most well known place to go, and they offer comprehensive checks on your car. Along with what we’ve mentioned, they can tell you if the car’s got any mileage discrepancies and what they think the car is worth.

We also have a car check tool you can use. Our car check is offered in partnership with MotorCheck and includes detailed vehicle history information for any car in the UK, giving you confidence when you buy your next car.

How much does a HPI check cost?

A HPI check typically costs around £9.99 to £14.99. This price can vary depending on the specific service provider. The basic checks will give you the basic information such as if the car is stolen, has outstanding finance and if it’s been scrapped or written off.

If you want more details, such as the number of owners, MOT history, mileage discrepancies or details of the outstanding finance, you’ll have to pay for an upgraded check. These usually start at around £30 but can cost as much as £50.

At Carwow, you can upgrade to a full car history check for more detailed information, with prices starting from just £3.99 per check. You can buy a single full report from us for £8.50. If you’re checking more than one car, we also offer bundles (three checks for £14.99 or five checks for £19.99).

Is the HPI check worth it?

Yes, a HPI check is generally worth it if you’re thinking about buying a used car. It gives you a full rundown on the car’s history, so you can spot any potential problems and avoid getting scammed. Knowing it’s also clear gives you peace of mind and helps you avoid any unexpected costs.

HPI check FAQs

What do I need to do a HPI check?

All you’ll need to carry out a HPI check is the registration number of the car.

How long does a HPI check take?

A HPI check is done online and is delivered as soon as you buy it. You’ll be able to see and download it immediately.

Where does the information in a HPI check come from?

A HPI check takes information from numerous sources including the police national computer, the DVLA, the Society for Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), The Association of British Insurers and different finance companies.

What does HPI clear mean?

HPI clear essentially means the car has a clean history. The car is not recorded as stolen, written off or having outstanding finance.

Should I get a HPI check?

If you’re buying a secondhand car, especially if you’re buying from a private seller, it’s worth getting a HPI check to make sure the car has no hidden surprises. The last thing you want is for a bailiff to come and take the car away because it has outstanding finance you weren’t aware of.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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