Free · HPI alternative
Free Vehicle History Check (HPI Alternative)
WheelsAI runs a free UK vehicle history check by reg plate, covering write-off category, theft markers, mileage anomalies and high-level provenance flags. It is the free alternative to paid HPI-style reports for the most common pre-purchase questions. Outstanding finance and full keeper detail require an upgraded paid report; the free check covers the buyer-critical safety flags. Run the check before you view any used car — the cost of a missed Cat S or clocked vehicle is many times the cost of an upgraded report.
For UK vehicles, the most useful free pre-purchase data lives in the MOT history report — every test, recorded mileage, advisories and failures since 2005, sourced live from DVSA. Run that first, then come back here for write-off, theft and provenance flags.
Frequently asked questions
What is a vehicle history check?
A vehicle history check reveals whether a UK car has been written off, stolen, clocked, scrapped or has outstanding finance. It is an essential step before buying a used car.
Is this a free HPI check alternative?
Yes — for the most common buyer questions. WheelsAI shows write-off category, stolen-marker, scrap status and mileage anomaly flags free of charge. Full HPI-style reports including outstanding finance and full keeper history are available as an upgraded paid report.
How do I check previous owners on a car?
The free check shows the number of previous keepers held by the DVLA and the date of the most recent V5C issue. Full owner names are protected under UK privacy law and are not displayed in any consumer report — including paid HPI reports.
Can the check show if a car has been written off?
Yes. The free report flags Cat A, B, S and N write-offs from insurer-supplied data, plus salvage and scrap markers from the DVLA. A clean result means no write-off was reported as of the last data refresh.
What are Cat S and Cat N write-offs?
Cat S means structural damage from an accident that was repaired; Cat N means non-structural damage that was repaired. Both can be insured and driven, but they typically sell for less than an equivalent non-written-off car.
Can a history check tell me if a car has outstanding finance?
A full HPI-style report does include outstanding finance and hire-purchase records. The free WheelsAI check highlights high-level flags; upgraded checks give full financial history.
How does a mileage anomaly check work?
WheelsAI compares the odometer reading recorded at every MOT against the previous test. A drop or an implausibly large jump is flagged as a potential clocking event — the same logic used by paid clocking-detection services.
How does this differ from the MOT history check?
MOT history shows test results, advisories and recorded mileage. A vehicle history check shows write-off, theft, scrap and finance records. You should run both before buying a used car — they answer different questions.