Start free, then fill the gaps
Check the registration, identity and MOT trail first. GOV.UK’s used-car checklist covers the documents and records to compare. Ralph’s free UK check brings available identity, MOT and recorded mileage together.
Free MOT history does not check outstanding finance, theft or write-off records. Choose paid coverage for those questions. A clear history result also cannot confirm the car’s current mechanical condition.
Compare the price for the cars you’ll actually check
| Service | Price checked on 11 October 2026 | What to check before paying |
|---|---|---|
| Official HPI Check | £19.99 for one; £29.99 for three | Finance, theft, write-off and mileage coverage. Valuation is subject to availability. |
| TotalCarCheck Gold | £9.99 for one; £14.99 for three; £19.99 for five | Finance, valuation, salvage history and write-off coverage listed on its pricing page. |
| Ralph Premium Check | £9.99 buys 25 credits for one Premium Check | Licensed history, available valuation and buying guidance for your route. |
| Ralph Custom Check | Selected options set the credit cost; packs start at £3.99 for 8 credits | Check each option and the total. Eight credits do not cover every history check. |
Sources: HPI Check, TotalCarCheck prices, Ralph’s check options.
Prices and coverage can change. Compare the full basket, including any extras, for the number of cars you need. A low bundle price per check still means paying for the bundle.
Ralph’s finance, stolen and write-off sections use data provided by Experian. Previous Advert History and manufacturer service history are separate Custom options.
Put repairs into the budget
Use photos, MOT findings and seller information to identify work that needs checking. Get a garage quote when the scope is uncertain. Ralph’s repair allowances and researched parts offers help with budgeting; they cannot confirm hidden faults, part fitment or the final workshop bill.
An invented example:
| Cost | Allowance |
|---|---|
| Car | £6,000 |
| Repairs | £700 |
| Collection | £150 |
| Contingency | £350 |
| Planned total | £7,200 |
For an auction, add the applicable auction charges before setting your bid. See the worked bid calculation.
Read missing evidence as a gap
“Unavailable” does not mean clear. If valuation is missing, compare suitable listings and seek an independent appraisal. An auction seller’s estimate is not an independent valuation. No matching history records cannot prove a car was never damaged.
Choose your next step
Check identity and MOT history, fill the paid history gaps, then price the likely work. Choose the coverage that answers your questions about this car.
Compare Ralph with TotalCarCheck, view a sample report, or choose individual checks.
