Yes, you can look up a car's title information, primarily to verify its legal status and uncover critical history before a purchase. This process, often called a vehicle history report, is essential for uncovering issues like salvage titles, odometer fraud, or undisclosed damage. The most reliable method is using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), a unique 17-character code found on the dashboard or driver's side door jamb.
You typically have two main avenues for a VIN lookup. The first is through official government channels, specifically your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). They hold the authoritative record of the title. However, access is often restricted to the current legal owner or requires a valid reason, like completing a sale. The second, more common method for buyers is using a paid third-party service. These companies aggregate data from DMVs, insurance companies, and police records to provide a comprehensive report.
The key information you'll find in a title lookup includes the vehicle's title brand, which indicates its true condition. A "clean" title is what you want, while brands like "salvage," "flood," or "junk" are major red flags. You'll also see ownership history, odometer readings over time, and whether the car has been reported as stolen.
The table below compares the primary methods for looking up title information:
| Lookup Method | Primary Data Source | Best For | Cost | Key Information Provided |
|---|
| State DMV Office | Official state titling database | Current owners, legal transactions | Varies by state; often a small fee | Official title status, lienholder info, registered owner |
| Online Third-Party Services (e.g., Carfax, AutoCheck) | Aggregated data from DMVs, insurers, repair shops | Potential used car buyers | ~$40 - $100 for a single report | Title brand history, accident reports, service records, odometer rollback alerts |
| National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) VINCheck | Insurance theft and salvage records | Free preliminary check for theft or salvage history | Free | Whether the vehicle has been reported as stolen or as a salvage vehicle |
| VehicleHistory.com | Multiple data sources including NMVTIS | Basic vehicle history check | Varies; some free info | Title checks, recalls, basic value estimates |
Always cross-reference the VIN on the report with the VIN on the car itself to avoid fraud. A clean title history doesn't guarantee a perfect car, but a problematic title history is a strong reason to walk away from the purchase.
