Where Our Data Comes From
and What It Can't Tell You
CarLook is built on official UK government data sources. We believe in being transparent about what our checks cover, where the data comes from, and — critically — what our tools cannot detect. Informed buyers make better decisions.
Our core principle: official data first, AI second
Every CarLook check starts with live data from the DVLA and DVSA — the same government databases that underpin UK vehicle licensing and roadworthiness records. AI analysis is layered on top to help interpret and contextualise that data. We never invent data, and we always show you the source.
What Each Check Covers
Expand each section to see exactly what data is returned and what its limitations are.
DVLA Registration Data
Source: Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
What we check
- Make, model, colour, and body type
- Engine size and fuel type
- Year of manufacture and first registration
- Current tax (VED) status and expiry
- Registered keeper count (number of previous owners)
- Vehicle status (SORN, scrapped, exported)
Limitations
- DVLA data reflects what was registered — it does not detect undisclosed modifications
- Colour changes not always updated by previous owners
- Keeper count is a registered count, not a physical handover count
MOT History
Source: Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)
What we check
- Full pass and fail records with dates
- Advisory items and failure reasons
- Recorded mileage at each MOT test
- Test station and tester information
- AI-generated mileage consistency analysis
- AI risk flag for unusual patterns (mileage drops, repeated failures)
Limitations
- MOT history only starts from 2005 for most vehicles
- Vehicles under 3 years old have no MOT history
- Mileage is self-reported by the vehicle's odometer — clocking is not always detectable from history alone
- Advisory items are not failures; they indicate items to monitor
AI Listing Analysis
Source: CarLook AI (language model analysis)
What we check
- Red flag detection in listing descriptions
- Inconsistency checks between stated and expected details
- Missing information flags (no service history, no MOT, etc.)
- Urgency and pressure language detection
- Price context against typical market range
Limitations
- AI analysis is based on the text provided — it cannot verify claims independently
- A clean AI analysis does not mean the vehicle is problem-free
- AI may miss context that a human expert would catch
- Not a substitute for a physical inspection or independent HPI check
Live Listing Feeds
Source: MarketCheck UK, eBay Motors UK
What we check
- Real-time listings from MarketCheck and eBay
- Price, mileage, location, and seller type
- Vehicle images and listing descriptions
- Listing age and seller feedback (eBay)
Limitations
- Listings are provided by third-party platforms — CarLook does not verify individual listings
- A listing appearing on CarLook is not a recommendation to buy
- Prices and availability change in real time — always verify on the source platform
- CarLook does not have a commercial relationship with MarketCheck or eBay
What CarLook Cannot Detect
No digital check — including CarLook — can replace a physical inspection or a full HPI check. Be aware of these limitations before making a purchase decision.
Whether a vehicle has been in an accident (unless it failed an MOT for structural reasons)
Outstanding finance or loans against the vehicle
Whether the vehicle is stolen (requires a full HPI check)
Mechanical condition, wear, or hidden faults
Whether the vehicle has been clocked (mileage fraud) if done carefully
Private sale history or informal ownership transfers
Whether a dealer is reputable or trustworthy
Cosmetic damage, bodywork repairs, or paint quality
For a complete picture, we recommend combining a CarLook check with a physical inspection by a qualified mechanic and a full HPI check from a recognised provider such as the AA, RAC or HPI Ltd. CarLook is a buyer intelligence tool, not a substitute for due diligence.
