What does MOT mileage history tell me about a used car?

Annual mileage gaps reveal odometer fraud, neglected periods, and whether the car has been ticking up town miles or hammered on motorways.

Here's a quick, honest answer from a working UK mechanic — what causes it, what it costs to fix, and what to do next.

What if MOT history shows missing years? — Pre-2005 vehicles had no online history. After 2005, gaps usually mean SORN — ask why.

Is high mileage always bad? — Not on a well-serviced motorway car. A 150,000-mile diesel with full history can outlast a 70,000-mile town petrol.

Bob's Mechanical Repairs — independent family-run garage in Birnam, Dunkeld, Perthshire. Call 01350 727 276 or email bob@bobsmechanicalrepairs.co.uk.