How to Check Used Car Records?
4 Answers
If you want to check the vehicle accident records and maintenance records offline, you can go to a 4S store for inquiry. Just follow the relevant websites and enter to check the vehicle's accident records, maintenance records, insurance claims records and other information.
Last time I helped a friend pick out a used car, I learned a lot—the key is to check records carefully. First, get the car's VIN number (a string of digits on the vehicle), take a photo with your phone, and upload it to websites like Carfax for a free report to check for accident or fire records. If the seller refuses to provide it, be cautious. Second, inspect the maintenance history by asking the seller for service receipts and verify if the dates and details match. Don’t forget to listen to the engine sound and smoothness during the test drive. That time, I came across a car advertised as flawless, but the report revealed a minor collision repair—saved me trouble in the end. It’s worth spending a little on a professional inspection, especially for the chassis and electrical system. The whole process is straightforward, but don’t skip details to save time. Learn more about cars regularly to avoid being fooled.
I always say checking the records before buying a used car is as important as a physical exam. First, you need to get the VIN number, then quickly generate a report through an app like AutoCheck, focusing on the number of accidents and maintenance records. If the report is incomplete, it's more reliable to check the original factory records at a 4S shop to avoid odometer fraud. During the inspection, don't just look at the surface; also check the ownership history to ensure there are no frequent changes of owners or loan disputes. I recommend comparing report data for several cars and bringing a mechanic to inspect the brakes and tires on-site. Remember, saving money is not as important as buying peace of mind—this is a lesson learned from experience.
Checking used car records is simple. Just enter the VIN number into services like VinDecoder to get results. I look at crash test records and whether regular maintenance was done on time. If details are missing, be extra cautious. Combine this with a personal inspection of the engine and body condition to quickly get it done.
