there is a text service you can get a car check through. dont know how good it is but it only costs �3 plus the cost of your text message.
you will have to text the reg number of the vehicle to 83600
these checks that cost only �4 .... are they copmrehensive m enough ..... i alwats thought , that HPi official car history check was in excess of thirty pounds ??
have a look at http://www.CarCheckUK.co.uk they offer a free car id check and a car check to suit all wallets. If the car is old then its doubtfull you will need to check for outstanding finance so a cheak check to make sure it is not stolen etc will be fine or you can get a check include outstanding finance data from a fiver.