How to spot clocking from the MOT history
Every MOT records the odometer reading, so a car's history builds into a mileage trail. A trail that only goes up is what you want to see.
- A reading lower than an earlier one. We flag these in red. Ask the seller why, and for paperwork such as an invoice for a replacement instrument cluster.
- A sudden slowdown. If a car averaged 12,000 miles a year and then only 1,000, ask why. There are honest reasons, like a change of owner or job, but it's worth asking.
- Long gaps. If no MOT was recorded for more than 18 months, we say so. The car may have been off the road, but it's a question to ask.
- Kilometres. A few readings are recorded in kilometres. We convert them, so a switch between units doesn't look like a jump or a drop.
The MOT history can't show finance, write-offs or theft. For those you'll need a paid vehicle history check.
Common questions
How do I check a car's mileage history?
Enter the registration above. We show the odometer reading recorded at each MOT, from DVSA's records, with the dates.
What does it mean if the mileage went down?
A reading lower than an earlier one is the classic sign of clocking, but it can also come from a replaced speedometer or instrument cluster, or a typing error at the test. Ask the seller to explain it and show paperwork.
Why is there no mileage for one test?
The tester records whether the odometer was read. Some tests say it was unreadable, or the vehicle has no odometer, so there's no reading for that date.
Is the reading in miles or kilometres?
DVSA records which unit the odometer showed. Where it was in kilometres, we convert it to miles so the chart compares like with like, and say so.
More free checks and guides
When is my MOT due?
Your due date, the earliest day to test, and a calendar reminder.
How much is an MOT?
The official maximum fees in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
MOT results explained
Dangerous, major, minor and advisory, and what each means for you.
What the MOT checks
The nine areas of the test, from brakes to emissions.
MOT test centres
Every approved test centre in Great Britain, by postcode and town.
MOTs in Northern Ireland
Test centres, booking, changing a test and fees.
Sources
Checked 14 October 2026. Spotted something out of date? Email hello@motmileage.co.uk.