How to Use Vehicle History Reports
How CarFax and Experian AutoCheck Help Used Car Buyers
Mar 19, 2008
A vehicle history report can provide car buyers with important information before they buy a used car. The VIN number check provides information about a car’s title, how a car has been used, car problems and odometer information. A used car history report, along with test driving a used car and getting an inspection by a trusted mechanic, can help with the final buying decision. VIN number checks are available from a number of companies including CarFax and Experian AutoCheck.
Information Included in Vehicle History Report
A vehicle history report provides extensive information about used cars to customers including:
- The title check is an important part of checking a used car’s history. Title information might include information about a fire, if the car was turned into salvage (meaning it was considered a “total loss” by an insurance company) and the number of owners a car has had.
- Problems with the car are also included in the vehicle history report. The report includes details about whether the car was up for sale at a salvage auction, has been in an accident or has had severe structural damage.
- Information about how the car was used is also included in a VIN number check. If the car was used for commercial purposes, leased, or stolen, that information will also be included in the used car history report.
- The odometer information will also be in the vehicle history report. If the mileage on the odometer is suspicious, the VIN number check will help bring that information to light.
CarFax Vehicle History Reports Provide Details about Used Cars
CarFax vehicle history reports offer detailed information about used cars. The VIN number check uses information from more than 20,000 sources, according to the CarFax website. The sources used to produce the CarFax vehicle history reports include the Departments of Motor Vehicles in the U.S. and Canada, police departments, rental agencies, car auctions and more. CarFax charges $24.99 for a single car history report and $29.99 for unlimited vehicle history reports for 30 days.
Experian AutoCheck Gives Customers Vehicle Credit Scores
In addition to the information provided by a used car history report, Experian’s AutoCheck also provides a vehicle credit score. The vehicle credit score gives customers a number that encompasses information about the car’s history, says the AutoCheck website. Experian AutoCheck’s score lets users compare the score with other cars of similar age and class to help decide if it’s a good buy. AutoCheck costs $19.99 for a single car history report and costs $24.99 for unlimited vehicle history reports for 60 days.
Readers who enjoyed Used Car Vehicle History Reports might also enjoy reading: Save Money on Auto Insurance, Before You Buy Auto Insurance, and Buying Antique Auto Insurance.
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