Last updated 1 November 2026.
Car Control's Premium check costs £6.99, including VAT, and covers the stolen vehicle check, outstanding finance and insurance write-off records, plus mileage and MOT history. It is a one-off payment with no subscription, and the preview is free.
Why a stolen check matters
If you buy a car that turns out to be stolen, it can be returned to its rightful owner or their insurer, and you're usually left chasing the seller for your money. Stolen cars are often sold quickly and cheaply, sometimes with false plates or documents.
How to check with Car Control
The stolen check is part of the Premium report (£6.99). It shows whether the car is recorded as stolen, together with write-off and finance checks, plate changes, keeper history and the full mileage and MOT analysis.
Warning signs when you view the car
- The VIN doesn't match. The VIN on the V5C logbook should match the one on the windscreen and on the car's body.
- The V5C address isn't where you're viewing the car. Be wary of sellers who want to meet in a car park or bring the car to you.
- No V5C, or the seller says it's "in the post". Don't buy until you've seen it.
- A price that seems too good and pressure to pay quickly, in cash or by bank transfer before you've seen the car.
- Recent plate changes. A Premium report lists earlier plates, so you can ask why they changed.
Safer ways to pay
Never pay a deposit for a car you haven't seen. Use a traceable payment method, and keep a written receipt with the seller's name, address, the car's registration, VIN and mileage.