Salvage History Check
Supports all UK registration formats: AB12 CDE, A123 ABC, ABC 123A
About Salvage History
UK Salvage and AuctionHistory Check
A salvage history check reveals whether a vehicle has previously suffered damage and been sold via a salvage auction. This check includes key details such as the date of the incident, mileage, location, a description of the damage, and photographs of the car.
What is Included in a Salvage Check?
Our free salvage check is part of our broader car history report and comprises the following:
Vehicle Description
Full details of the car.
Damage Imagery
Photographs showing the vehicle’s condition.
Damage Summary
A breakdown of the damage sustained.
Mileage Data
Recorded mileage at the time.
Salvage Site Location
Where the vehicle was held.
Salvage History
A complete history including visual evidence.
What is a Salvage Check?
If a vehicle has been damaged in an accident, written off by an insurer, or stolen and recovered in a damaged state, it may end up at a salvage auction. A salvage check provides you with images of the damaged vehicle, allowing you to gauge the severity of the incident. (See our sample report for examples of salvage damage photos).
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether a salvaged car is a sound investment depends on several factors, including the extent of the damage, repair costs, and its current market value. Some salvaged vehicles can be repaired and restored to a safe, roadworthy condition, potentially offering excellent value for money.
The check reveals the extent of the damage. In many instances, we provide links to images of the vehicle as it appeared at the auction, which is invaluable for assessing the severity of the damage.
No. A vehicle that has been salvaged is deemed unsafe for road use. It cannot be taxed or insured until it has been properly repaired.
You must contact the DVLA directly to determine if a specific salvage car can be registered and deemed fit for the road.
When a vehicle is written off, it is assigned a category on the MIAFTR database. This status must be recorded in the car’s history and disclosed to potential buyers.
Category A (Scrap): The most severe category. The vehicle is beyond repair and must be crushed entirely.
Category B (Break): The vehicle is beyond repair, though some parts may be salvaged and reused. The shell must be crushed.
Category S (Repairable Structural): Introduced in October 2017 (replacing Category C). The vehicle has suffered structural damage but can be repaired and returned to the road.
Category N (Repairable Non-Structural): Introduced in October 2017 (replacing Category D). The vehicle has suffered non-structural damage and can be repaired and returned to the road.
Category U: Not owned by an insurance company and not logged in MIAFTR.
Category X: No record of damage and not recorded on HPI.
