How to spot a clocked car

Mileage should only ever go up. Check that it does.

1. Free: the MOT record

The government's free MOT history check (gov.uk/check-mot-history) lists the mileage at each test. Any drop, or a long gap, is a red flag.

2. Past adverts

Old adverts record the mileage at each sale. If a 2023 advert says 48,900 and today's says 42,100, walk away or ask hard questions.

3. The car itself

• Steering wheel, gear knob and pedals worn smooth on a "low-mileage" car.
• A brand-new pedal rubber or wheel cover on an old car.
• Service book stamps that stop, or invoices with the mileage blacked out.

4. Ask the seller

Ask for service invoices and old MOT certificates. Honest sellers have them.

Deal Check guide · updated October 2026