How to Check Accident Records and Maintenance Records for Used Cars?

[PrestonMarie]

Accident records are considered personal privacy, and insurance companies will not readily provide them. You need the policy number and the original owner's ID number to inquire. Log in to the insurance company's website, find the corresponding service window, and fill in the policy number and the insured's ID number as required to access the insurance information.

[DiJohnny]

When buying a used car, I prioritize accident and maintenance history. The most direct way to check insurance claims is by contacting the insurance company—providing the VIN will reveal claim details, but authorization from the original owner is required. Maintenance records come in two types: if done at a 4S dealership, bring the vehicle license to the corresponding brand dealer to retrieve them; for independent shop maintenance, third-party platforms like CheJianding or ChaBoShi are recommended—spend 30-50 RMB, input the VIN, and get a report. One detail to note: records only cover data within the last 7 years, so older cars may have incomplete histories. Also, remember to cross-check physical signs like screw marks on the car to avoid odometer rollback scams.