Several dealerships will list a used car with a link to a free CARFAX VHR report. You may also search for used cars on CARFAX’s website. Each listing comes with a free CARFAX VHR. [4] X Research source
A complete VHR will separate information into the following sections: vehicle history and report summary, value calculator, ownership history, title history, additional history, and detailed history. A free report will contain components of each section, but the information will not include as many details. Since the free VHR is vague, it may also be harder to interpret. [6] X Research source When you get the vehicle history report, confirm that the title on the car is clear, meaning it isn’t listed as a salvaged vehicle and doesn’t have a lien against it. [7] X Expert Source Bryan HambyProfessional Auto Broker Expert Interview. 1 March 2020.
When talking to the salesperson, you could say: “I really love this car, but I have a few reservations. My last car was in the shop all of the time and I want to make sure this vehicle doesn’t have a long history of repairs. In order to commit to the car, I need to see a detailed vehicle history report. This would really ease my concerns. Would you be willing to provide me with one?” Wait until you are close to purchasing the car to request a VHR. A dealer is unlikely to run these reports on a number of vehicles. Even if you’re buying the car from a private seller rather than a dealership, they may be willing to purchase a full VHR and share it with you.
The NICB offers a free VIN check, which offers information about the car’s history based on the Vehicle Identification Number. [11] X Research source For example, you can use this service to find out if your car has ever been reported stolen or reported as a salvage vehicle.
VinCheck keeps 5 years of history that will help prevent fraudulent vehicle transfer. You are allowed 5 searches from the same IP address.
Manufacturer Model Manufacturing details, such as chassis type, engine size, country of assembly, and engine power A general summary of what the full report would contain if you choose to purchase it
Ownership history Clean title/ownership verification Periodic odometer readings Maintenance records History of rental or lease Accident repair history Flood repair history
Vehicle ownership records Vehicle information Government records Public records Background history Historical records State records
VehicleHistory. com appears to offer a full report for free. However, this is a relatively new resource, and less has been written about the validity of VehicleHistory. com than the other sources. Consumer Reports recommends that buyers consider comparing reports from multiple sources. [17] X Trustworthy Source Consumer Reports Nonprofit organization dedicated to consumer advocacy and product testing Go to source
