How to Check a Used Car's Maintenance History
When buying a used car, understanding its maintenance history is crucial to making a confident purchase. A vehicle history report is a valuable tool for uncovering a car's past, including ownership records, accident history, and repair details. This guide explains how to use tools like VIN number lookup, VIN check, and resources such as a free Carfax report to learn about a car's history.
What Is a Vehicle History Report?
A vehicle history report compiles important details about a car's past. It may include:
- Ownership history
- Accident records
- Maintenance and repair history
- Salvage or flood damage status
- Open recalls
How to Use a VIN Number Lookup
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is your gateway to a car's history. Found on the dashboard near the windshield or inside the driver's door, the 17-digit VIN allows you to check a car's records using a VIN check tool.
To perform a VIN check:
- Visit trusted websites like Carfax, AutoCheck, or the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) at vehiclehistory.gov.
- Enter the VIN to access details about the vehicle's title status, accident history, and more.
- Use free resources like the National Insurance Crime Bureau's VINCheck database to see if the car has been stolen or declared salvage.
Free Carfax Report Options
Some dealerships and private sellers provide a free Carfax report to assure buyers of the car's condition. While running a full report independently often incurs a fee, free summaries can offer insights into records like:
- Title issues
- Mileage accuracy
- Service history
Steps to Check a Used Car's Maintenance History
Get a Vehicle History ReportUse a VIN number lookup through providers like AutoCheck, Carfax, or NMVTIS-approved services to identify major issues.
Check for Recalls
Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's SaferCar.gov to search for open safety recalls using the VIN.
Inspect for Salvage or Flood Damage
Use the National Insurance Crime Bureau's VINCheck tool to ensure the car hasn't been damaged by floods or labeled as salvage.
Verify Service History
A vehicle history report often includes maintenance records, which reveal if the car was regularly serviced and whether major repairs were performed.
Get an Independent Inspection
A professional mechanic can confirm the car's current condition and uncover hidden damage not listed in the report.
Why Vehicle History Matters
A comprehensive vehicle history report combined with a VIN check can save you from buying a problematic car. Use these resources to negotiate a fair price or walk away if red flags emerge.
