How Your MOT History Impacts Car Value: What UK Sellers Must Know in 2025

If you’re thinking about selling your car in the UK this year, there’s more to the story than just a clean exterior and low mileage. One thing that often flies under the radar — but can make a big difference to what your car’s worth — is your MOT history. Whether you’re dealing with a private buyer or part-exchanging with a dealer, people are checking. 

Let’s break down why your MOT record could impact your resale price and how you can stay one step ahead by using tools like a car value checker and running a quick MOT check.

Why is MOT history a bigger deal than you might think?

We all know the MOT is a legal must for any car over 3 years old. But it’s not just about passing or failing once a year — it’s about the bigger picture your MOT history paints.

A buyer looking at your car can now check:

• How often it’s passed or failed
• Whether there are ongoing issues (e.g., dodgy brakes or bald tyres)
• If any advisories were ignored
• Whether mileage readings match up

A tidy MOT history says, “This car’s been looked after.” A messy one? It could raise red flags and knock hundreds off your asking price.

Buyers are doing their homework — So should you

Gone are the days when someone would just take your word for it. With tools like a free MOT check, buyers are checking everything from emissions faults to missed services. That means if you’re not aware of what’s in your MOT record, you could get caught off guard.

Imagine this: You’re trying to sell your 2015 VW Golf, but your MOT history shows three consecutive years of suspension advisories. Even if it’s fixed now, the buyer may still want a discount “just in case.”

Running a free mot check yourself means you’re in control. You’ll be ready to explain past issues or — better yet — get them sorted before anyone comes knocking.

Here’s how MOT history affects your car’s value?

When you use a car value checker, you’ll often notice that MOT status is taken into account. It might not be obvious at first, but it plays a role in how reliable your car looks to others. Here’s how:

1. Time left on MOT
   • A car with 10–12 months left on its MOT feels safer to buy than one that’s nearly expired.
   • Less admin and cost for the buyer = more appealing.
2. History of passes and failures
   • A car that’s always passed? Likely well-maintained.
   • A car that frequently fails? Buyers will start wondering what else is wrong.
3. Advisories and recurring problems
   • If the same issue pops up every year, buyers might assume it’s a money pit.
4. Mileage consistency
   • MOT tests record mileage every year. If those numbers don’t add up to what you’ve listed online, you’ll need to explain why.

Running a car value check side-by-side with your MOT record gives you a realistic idea of what to ask — and what to expect.

How to check MOT history (It’s Free and Easy)

You don’t need any special knowledge or mechanical background. With a quick MOT check, all it takes is your vehicle registration number to view your car’s full test history — including passes, failures, advisories, and expiry dates. — including passes, failures, advisories, and expiry dates. Since this is exactly what a potential buyer will see, it’s smart to review it first. If anything seems unusual, this gives you time to fix the issue or prepare an honest explanation.

Use a car value checker to price your car right

Once your MOT history is sorted, your next step is knowing how much your car is actually worth. A free car value check gives you a fair market estimate based on things like:

• Car make, model, and year
• Current mileage
• Market demand for your vehicle
• MOT status (in many cases)

You’ll get a price range for both private sale and trade-in offers — which can stop you from overpricing (and scaring away buyers) or underpricing (and missing out on money).

Want a better valuation? Start with these MOT tips

If you’re planning to list your car soon, you can take a few easy steps to improve your car’s appeal:

• Clear Up Any Advisories: Fix little things like tyres, bulbs, or wipers. It makes a big difference.
• Get a Fresh MOT: If your MOT expires soon, renewing it now could increase your asking price.
• Keep Receipts: Buyers love paperwork. Show them proof that issues were handled.
• Check the Value After Fixes: Once you’ve made repairs, run another car value check — it might go up.

Final Thoughts: Give your car the credit it deserves

Think of your MOT history as part of your car’s CV. If you’ve kept it in good shape, don’t be shy about showing that off. On the flip side, if there are issues, be honest and get ahead of them.

In 2025, buyers want transparency and value — and you can offer both. Just:

• Run a free MOT check
• Use a trusted car value checker
• Prep your car and documents

Then? List it with confidence.

Start your MOT check and valuation now at CheckCarValue.co.uk and get the price your car truly deserves.