Are you struggling to determine the best used vehicle for your budget and are worried about the title of the same? Are you worried that a used car salesman may be taking advantage of you? Are you in the market for buying a used car for the first time? If you struggle with these questions then you must conduct a Vehicle History Check.
How to conduct a Vehicle History Check?
US car manufacturers have been using Vehicle Identification Number or VIN for all vehicles since the 1950s. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration created a standard VIN system with a 17 digit unique identifier. Since each one is unique, it can be thought of as a vehicle fingerprint for identifying the following information for the Vehicle History Check –
- Car manufacturing company details,
- Country of manufacture,
- Assembly plant location,
- Model of vehicle,
- Body type and engine,
- Model year, etc.
Identifying the VIN details
You can locate the VIN number on the lower part of your vehicle windshield. You can also find it near –
- Driver side door pillar,
- Insurance is,
- Car registration, etc.
Title brands as per Vehicle History Check
Below are some of the common descriptions of title brands that you must be aware of. The frequently observed ones are the following –
- Salvage – Salvage title brands are often issued by the states when the vehicle in question is damaged. Further, the cost of repairs are significant and beyond the fair market value of the vehicle. For instance- a vehicle may get such a title when the insurance company declares the vehicle as a total loss.
- Flood or water damages – The vehicle in question has been damaged due to hurricanes, thunderstorms, flash floods, etc. Even if you are making an interstate purchase, it is important to assess the vehicle for damages due to the above issues.
- Rebuilt – A history check that shows a rebuilt vehicle means that the same was earlier branded as a salvage. This was later rebuilt or repaired but passed the inspection.
Why is it recommended to undertake a detailed history check of the used car?
When you plan to buy a used car, it is important to carry out the right checks to ensure that the vehicle is fit for use. It helps to ensure that the same is not stolen, damaged or altered. Such a check during the purchase process can help you to get a better understanding of what you are investing into.
By investing into the vehicle history report through a trusted service provider, you can expect the following advantages –
- Get important information about your shortlisted vehicle and its history. It can also offer details about the ownership and accidents.
- It helps to safeguard you from buying a car that is under any financial agreement or lien.
- Ensures that you avoid purchasing vehicles with an outstanding recall or safety issues.
- Ensures that you do not invest into a stolen vehicle.
- It offers valuable information about its mileage and avoids investing in a vehicle with a clocked odometer.
- Offers clear ideas about the vehicle’s past and present condition so that you can make a smart purchase decision.
