HPI checks from 5p after redemption (£5 outlay)

What's the deal?

Getting a data check's a crucial part of buying a used car, especially if it's lacking a full service history.

The RAC offers a basic one of these (known as HPI checks, although thats actually a specific brand name) for £5. Yet it's possible to get £4.95 cashback if you buy it through a cashback site, meaning a total cost of 5p.

What does it cover?

The RAC's check should be wide-ranging enough for most people.

• Things included: Stolen, Outstanding Finance, Write-off, Plate Transfer, Indemnity Insurance, Mileage, VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), Vehicle ID, Colour Change, No. previous owners, Vehicle Valuation, Import, Documents

To get it for 5p, you need to go via this TopCashback link. As it's a cashback site, you'll need to set up an account to get the £4.95 back in due course (read all about Cashback Sites, you need to be aware the payout isn't 100% guaranteed)

Anything else?

Most data checking services put up huge cash guarantees against mistakes to entice people to use them. As mr_accountant writes below, the only difference between the RAC's check and the market-leading (and £19.99) HPI check is that the latter offers a bigger guarantee.

Yet read the terms and you'll find there's usually a better chance of a three-legged horse winning the grand national than your claim coming through, so don't factor in these rewards when deciding.

Thanks to mr_accountant for originally posting this offer below, and the update!

This discussion thread was originally included in the weekly email at the beginning of April when the cashback was £3 so some of the earlier replies will now be out of date.

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