How To Check Car Spec By Reg
Can you get a free car spec check by vehicle registration in the UK?
No! Here’s why…
Car Spec Check is the only website IN THE WORLD that provides current valuations for options and specifications on new or used cars.
What is a Car Spec Check?
A car spec check, in our opinion, is a system where you can type in the registration number of a vehicle, and get a detailed view of the specification and options it was built with from the factory.
Unfortunately, it is impossible to get that information from a manufacturer. They do not allow that level of detail to be accessed by the general public or ANY websites. Only the OEM and dealer have that level of detail.
That’s why Car Spec Check exists: to bridge this gap.
You can search for your car’s specifications in our pricing guide on our homepage. We’ll give you a free valuation of what those specifications are worth today!
Why Can’t You Check Car Specs By Reg?
it’s just not a tool that’s accessible by the general public, so unfortunately, you can’t check car specs by reg.
When buying a car, it’s crucial to understand its full value, including any additional options. For example, if you’re considering an older vehicle with extra features, knowing the value of those options can prevent overpaying. Similarly, for new cars, it’s helpful to know if upgrading to Climate Control from Air Conditioning will add value.
Why Is This Information Restricted??
Even if you took out the GDPR aspect regarding personal data. Think of it another way. Thieves.
Allowing access to detailed information on vehicles would allow them to target high-value, high-specification vehicles; with some implications being higher insurance and personal safety concerns. The manufacturer doesn’t want the liability issues that surround those concerns, so they only provide very basic details of a vehicle to 3rd parties.
Of course, if manufacturers allowed that level of granular data, then vehicles would be valued more accurately.
Not allowing 3rd parties to allow specification data is the lesser of two evils.
What Is Car Spec Check?
Car Spec Check is the world’s ONLY free pricing guide that helps you understand the value of options and specifications. We don’t provide basic details, we provide access to detailed options and specifications that you can select, for FREE.
Every single option and valuation you receive is totally unique to the vehicle and options you select. We offer detailed valuations for specific options on different vehicles. For instance, the value of a panoramic roof on a Skoda will differ from its value on a Porsche.
If we could provide a car spec check by reg number, we certainly would, but as we mentioned before, it is absolutely impossible.
How do I find the specs of my car?
To find your car’s specs, visit our homepage and follow three simple steps: select your manufacturer, model, and options. For example, if you’re looking at an Audi Q2 on AutoTrader, you can use our system to find out if the listed options make the car over- or underpriced.
This is where things get really tasty.
Let’s say you’re in the market for a 2020 Audi Q2, and you’ve seen a Q2 on AutoTrader being advertised with loads of options?
You can use Car Spec Check to find out if the listed options make the car over- or underpriced.
Valuation for 3 options:
- 18-way electric front seats with memory: £328
- 3-spoke multifunction leather steering wheel: £81
- 360-degree parking camera: £147
The total value of the above specification is £556. So why is the dealer advertising that vehicle with those options for £1,200?
Or, you can simply search for “S line trim” (if that’s the model you want) and it will tell you the value of that specific trim level on an Audi Q2. In this case, £594 on a 2020 model.
You can search for any item of specification and check car specs for any vehicle in the UK.
What spec is my car?
The best option is to speak with a franchised dealership in order to find out the spec of your car. An independent dealer won’t know that information.
Alternatively, if you have the window sticker, or you know what your options are, then you should use our specification and options guide on the homepage.
Remember, when you get a valuation from a 3rd party, they DO NOT include additional options in the valuation. So, use our guide to help you understand the value of your specification and options.
How Can I Check The Specs Of A Car?
Generally, it depends on what “specs” you are after.
Some people want the engine specification, like whether it’s a V6, a diesel, or something more technical. Others, more commonly want to know what specifications and options the car came with.
The latter is more difficult to acquire. Actually, to be frank, it’s impossible. Here’s why:
Manufacturers do not allow public access to the individual specification of vehicles. They only allow the pedigree information such as the Manufacturer (Audi), model (A4 Diesel Hatchback), derivative (2.0 TDI S Line 3dr), and colour (red).
Technical information is widely available, alongside information such as insurance groups, and things such as outstanding finance, tax band, MOT, etc.
The data is simply far too sensitive to put out in the public domain, not to mention the GDPR laws around personal information and vehicles.
Car Spec Check is a halfway house between this. We understand you can’t get the individual specification of a vehicle, so we built a valuation guide that lets you select any specification you want (such as S Line on an Audi), and get a valuation for it. We’ve done the heavy lifting for you. We also value the individual specification of any vehicle in the UK. So if you only want to know what 3-spoke, flat-bottomed multi-function leather steering wheel is worth on an Audi RS3, we provide the current market value for it (seen below). You can pick any vehicle and model sold in the UK.
Can You Find The Spec Of A Car From The Registration?
For full car details, contact the manufacturer or dealer. They have access to comprehensive information.
As mentioned above, it’s impossible to get the exact specifications of a vehicle from the registration, because the manufacturers simply don’t allow it.
You can get vehicle information from the DVLA. They’ll provide you with basic information, such as manufacturer, model, and colour. You can even go a step further and they’ll show you whether a vehicle is taxed or has a current MOT.
You’ll notice, however, that even a huge governing body like the DVLA doesn’t have access to the individual specification of a vehicle.
You’ll get a lot of websites that try to lead you into thinking you check car specifications through their website, but you can’t.
What Are The Most Important Specs In A Vehicle
That’s a big question; and one that can’t be summarised in a few words here.
The specification is tailored to the brand, vehicle type, domestic/international market, and individual preferences of the 1st buyer.
For example, a tow bar on an Audi A3 is certainly feasible but is more important on a vehicle like the Audi A5. It really is going to depend on the application on which the vehicle will be used.
Generally speaking, we can suggest some important specs that will add value to your vehicle, but the best source is the valuation guide on our homepage.
Panoramic roof – One of the best options to tick if you have the choice. Generally loses the least amount of value over the lifecycle of a vehicle.
Leather seats – Susceptible to wear and tear, and as such, should be optioned on higher specification vehicles to help maintain a higher overall residual value.
360-degree parking camera – Classed as a convenience option, due to its ability to provide convenience when you need an all-around view of your vehicle during maneuvers. Can also help with insurance premiums if fitted as standard.
Metallic paint – Goes without saying really. One of the most prolific and varied options you can buy. Very specific to the manufacturer and model you select, but will certainly add value in the long run, so long as it is maintained to a reasonable level, and doesn’t fall outside the bounds of fair wear and tear for the age of the vehicle.
How Can I Check The Details Of A Car
To check the details of a car, start by contacting the manufacturer or dealer. They have the most comprehensive information since they build and sell the vehicles. This includes details not available to the public, accessible only to their network and customers.
First-party sources like the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) website are also valuable. While they may not provide granular details, they typically offer PDFs of vehicle specifications, prices, technical information, and contact details.
If these options don’t suffice, turn to governing bodies like the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency). They can provide basic information about the vehicle, such as the manufacturer, model, date of first registration, CO2 emissions, Euro status, and type approval.
Lastly, consider third-party websites like AutoTrader or other reputable sources. These sites often have connections with governing bodies and some manufacturer information. However, their data may not be as current as that from OEM websites. Check these sources to find details on specific manufacturers or models.
In summary:
- Manufacturer or Dealer: For the most detailed and reliable information.
- OEM Websites: For general specifications and contact information.
- Governing Bodies (DVLA): For basic vehicle details and official records.
- Third-Party Websites (AutoTrader, etc.): For additional information, though it may not be as up-to-date.
By following these steps, you can gather comprehensive details about any vehicle.
Are DVLA Records Public?
Some DVLA records are public, but detailed vehicle specifications are not available because manufacturers do not share sensitive information with third parties.