We reveal the truth about car data checks - explaining the important differences between most of the major car data check providers.

Car history checks or data checks are often referred to as 'HPI checks' because HPI were the first supplier of car history checks. A car history check, or data check pulls together information from the DVLA, Police and insurance databases. In recent years, partly because of internet technology, the number of companies offering data checks has significantly increased. There are slight but important differences between the checks, even though they are largely based on the same data and provide similar levels of cover.

The data check should reveal the car's history, including number plate changes, whether it has ever been written off after an accident by an insurance company, or registered as stolen with the Police. Some checks can also tell you if there is any finance owed on the car.

Why do I need a car history or data check?

When you buy a car privately, you need to check a car's history, to ensure you are not being ripped-off. For example, it could be stolen, owed to a finance company or a 'cut and shut.' You should start by getting a free reg check (car registration check). 

If the registration matches the car details you were expecting, then you should buy a full check.

Which data check should I pick?

We have highlighted what we think are the three best deals, depending on the level of check you want.

The most comprehensive checks come from HPI and Experian. But Experian provide another free check if there a problem with the first car you check, so that's our first pick.

If the MOT certificate mileage looks appropriate (given the time that has passed since the MOT test) then you may not worry about a mileage check. In which case, you can save twelve pounds and buy our second pick: Gold Car Status Check.

And if you just want to check that a car is neither an insurance write-off or registered as stolen, then the cheapest check is My Car Check's Classic Check.