Score Breakdown
The total score is out of 100, weighted across four factors
35%
MOT Health
30%
Mileage Consistency
20%
Tax & SORN Status
15%
Age Factor
MOT Health
35% of total score
Analyses the vehicle's complete MOT history — not just whether it passed, but how it passed. A car that sails through every test with no advisories is very different from one that scrapes through with a long list of minor faults year after year.
Score Examples
5 consecutive passes, 0–1 advisories each
Excellent3 passes, 1 failure, 3–5 advisories per test
Average2 failures in last 3 tests, recurring brake advisories
ConcernMileage Consistency
30% of total score
Compares the mileage recorded at each MOT test to detect anomalies. Genuine mileage should increase steadily year on year. Sudden drops, suspiciously low readings, or gaps in the record are red flags for clocking — one of the most common forms of used car fraud.
Score Examples
Steady 8,000–12,000 miles/year, no anomalies
ConsistentMostly consistent but one year unusually low
CheckMileage decreased between two tests
Red FlagTax & SORN Status
20% of total score
Checks the vehicle's current DVLA tax and SORN status. A car that is taxed and on the road is straightforward. A SORN vehicle is legally off the road — not necessarily a problem, but it needs explaining. An untaxed vehicle being driven is a legal issue that reflects poorly on the seller.
Score Examples
Taxed, 6+ months remaining
ClearSORN — seller says it's been in storage
VerifyUntaxed, no SORN declared
IssueAge Factor
15% of total score
Contextualises the vehicle's age against its condition. An older car is not automatically worse — a well-maintained 10-year-old car can score higher than a poorly maintained 3-year-old one. This factor adjusts expectations based on what is realistic for a vehicle of that age.
Score Examples
3-year-old car, low mileage, full history
Young8-year-old car, average mileage, good MOT history
Mid-age15-year-old car, high mileage, patchy history
High ageWhat Each Score Means
The total score is a guide, not a guarantee. Always read the breakdown alongside the number.
80–100
Strong history, consistent mileage, no significant concerns. A well-maintained vehicle.
60–79
Above average. Minor advisories or a slightly older age bracket, but no red flags.
40–59
Some concerns worth investigating. Ask the seller for clarification on specific points.
20–39
Multiple concerns. Proceed with caution and consider an independent inspection.
0–19
Significant red flags. Strongly consider walking away or getting a professional inspection first.
What the Score Does Not Cover
Being transparent means telling you what we cannot see, not just what we can. The CarLook Score has the following known limitations:
- The CarLook Score is based on DVLA and DVSA data only. It does not include finance checks, write-off status, or stolen vehicle records — those require a separate HPI or Experian check.
- MOT history only goes back to 2005 for most vehicles. Older cars may have limited data.
- Mileage data comes from MOT records. If a vehicle has had long gaps without an MOT, mileage consistency cannot be fully assessed.
- The score reflects the vehicle's documented history, not its current physical condition. Always inspect the car in person.
- AI analysis of listings is an additional layer and does not replace a professional mechanical inspection.
