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You can learn a lot about a used car from online vehicle history report providers.
If you or someone you know ever bought a used car that provided more trouble than transportation you know there’s no way to make lemonade out of a lemon car. One of the most valuable tools for used car buyers is a record of repairs and how often ownership has changed. Let’s take a look at what vehicle history reports reveal and where to get one.
What’s included on a vehicle history report
A vehicle history lists events reported by an insurance company, mechanic or body shop. In some cases, information may be reported by state departments of motor vehicles or law enforcement agencies.
Typically, a vehicle history report includes:
- Accidents that happened while the car was covered by insurance or there was an insurance claim made on the car.
- Maintenance service records are included as long as the shop that did the work reports to services like CarFax. Seeing a gap in routine maintenance doesn’t necessarily mean the work wasn’t done; it just may not have been reported.
- Mileage based on odometer readings when there’s been a change in owners.
- Theft reports
- Recall information
A vehicle history will also include the number of prior owners. However, ownership details aren’t always accurate. A reporting company may list an owner’s change of address or the removal of a lien as a change in ownership.
Red flags on vehicle reports
There are a few things on vehicle history reports that clearly indicate the car suffered prior damage. If you see a salvage title or a “flood” stamp, the car was written off as a total loss by an insurance company.
If a car shows several transfers of ownership with each owner only holding the car for a short time, this could indicate a serious problem with the vehicle.
Also beware if a private party offers the vehicle history. A common scam is to provide an older report that was generated before the car suffered damage. Purchase a vehicle history on your own to ensure you get the most recent report.
Why a vehicle history report may not reveal an accident
Vehicle history reports may not tell the whole story about a vehicle. For example, an accident might not show up on a vehicle history if the car was uninsured or no claim was made to fix damage.
Take a test drive and have a mechanic inspect the car
As you can see, a vehicle history report may not tell the whole story. Take the car for a test drive and pay attention to noises and vibration that could indicate damage or a need for repairs. Open and close all the doors as the well as the hood and trunk. Do they operate and latch properly? Do the body parts align?
Also, hire a trusted mechanic to do a used car inspection. Whatever they find will be worth their fee that will run between $150 and $250. A knowledgeable mechanic can verify that a car is in good working order, identify maintenance that will be needed (you can use this info for negotiating) and spot problems that mean the car is unreliable or has hidden damage.
How to get a vehicle history report
CarFax and AutoCheck are two of the most recognized names for vehicle history reports. A newer provider is Bumper. Edmunds tested each and compared them in this article.
All you need to get an online vehicle report is the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and method of payment, like a credit or debit card.
In addition to checking vehicle history reports, you can find car safety ratings based on year/make/model and vehicle recall information based on VIN. Get resources on buying a safe car here.
When you find the used car you want to buy, turn to Consumers for your auto loan. We’ll help put you in the driver’s seat with the best rates around.
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All loans subject to approval. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change may vary based on credit worthiness, qualifications, and collateral conditions.
Get a free quote on insurance
As a Consumers member, you can save money with group insurance discounts through Nulty Insurance. Discounts are available on both auto and homeowner’s insurance.