What previous MOT results tell you
Each MOT result gives you a dated snapshot of the vehicle's roadworthiness. A clean pass is reassuring, but the most useful signal is the pattern across several years.
- Passes and failures: whether the vehicle passed first time or needed repairs.
- Failure reasons: brakes, tyres, suspension, emissions, lights, corrosion and other defects.
- Advisories: items that were close enough to concern the tester but did not cause a failure.
- Mileage readings: the odometer value recorded at each test.
How to read MOT test results
Do not judge a car by one result alone. Look for repeat items. A car that fails once for a worn tyre may be perfectly normal. A car that repeatedly shows brake imbalance, suspension play or corrosion should be inspected carefully.
Also check the timing. Long gaps between tests can mean the car was off the road, imported, SORN, or simply not maintained consistently.
Check the full history by registration
The quickest way to check previous MOT results is to enter the registration on RegAdvisor. You will see the MOT history alongside mileage, tax status and buying guidance.
Run a free MOT history check
Enter a UK registration to check previous MOT results from official DVSA records.
Check MOT history