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Vehicle History Report Guide
Your essential tool for used car buying
Learn how to decode vehicle history reports and make informed decisions when purchasing a used vehicle.
What is a Vehicle History Report?
Understanding the basics
Your Vehicle Detective
A vehicle history report is a detailed document that reveals critical information about a used car. It compiles data from insurance companies, government agencies, auto auctions, and service centers to provide a comprehensive picture of the vehicle past.
These reports use the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to track the car from manufacturer to present day, revealing accidents, ownership history, service records, and potential issues.
Report Sources Include:
- • Insurance claim databases
- • Government registration records
- • Auto auction records
- • Service and repair facilities
- • Collision repair shops
What Reports Reveal
Critical information for your decision
Accident History
Details about collisions, damage severity, and repair work performed on the vehicle.
Ownership History
Number of previous owners, ownership duration, and registration locations.
Title Information
Title status, liens, and any title brands like salvage, flood, or lemon.
Service Records
Maintenance history, recalls, and service performed at authorized dealers.
Recall Information
Outstanding recalls and whether they have been addressed by authorized service centers.
Mileage Verification
Odometer readings over time to detect potential rollback or tampering.
Major Report Providers
Leading services in Canada and the US
CARFAX Canada
The most recognized name in vehicle history reports, with extensive Canadian database coverage.
Strengths:
- • Largest database in Canada
- • Comprehensive accident reporting
- • Regular database updates
- • Money-back guarantee
Most Popular
AutoCheck
Experian-owned service offering detailed reports with scoring system for easy comparison.
Strengths:
- • AutoCheck Score system
- • Auction and dealer data
- • Competitive pricing
- • Unlimited reports option
Great Value
VinAudit
Budget-friendly option providing essential vehicle history information at lower cost.
Strengths:
- • Low cost reports
- • Government data sources
- • Basic accident information
- • Quick report generation
Budget Option
For Canadian vehicles, CARFAX Canada typically provides the most comprehensive data. Consider getting reports from multiple providers for expensive purchases.
How to Read a Report
Understanding what you are looking at
Key Sections to Review
1. Vehicle Summary
Basic information including make, model, year, and current odometer reading.
2. Title History
Shows if the vehicle has a clean title or carries brands like salvage, flood, or lemon.
3. Accident Timeline
Chronological list of reported accidents with damage descriptions and repair information.
4. Service History
Maintenance records from authorized dealers showing regular upkeep.
5. Ownership Timeline
Number of previous owners and length of ownership periods.
Understanding Report Codes
Common Report Indicators:
Clean
No issues found
Minor
Small accident or issue
Major
Significant damage or problem
Severe
Flood, fire, or total loss
Pay Special Attention To:
- • Airbag deployment records
- • Structural damage indicators
- • Frequent ownership changes
- • Mileage inconsistencies
- • Rental or fleet use
Red Flags to Watch For
Warning signs that should concern you
Avoid These Issues
-
Flood Damage
Can cause long-term electrical and mechanical problems
-
Salvage Title
Vehicle was declared a total loss by insurance
-
Lemon History
Vehicle with recurring defects covered by lemon laws
-
Airbag Deployment
Indicates significant impact, check repair quality
-
Odometer Rollback
Mileage tampering to increase value
Proceed with Caution
-
Multiple Accidents
Pattern of accidents may indicate underlying issues
-
Rental/Fleet Use
Higher wear and tear from multiple drivers
-
Frequent Ownership Changes
May indicate hidden problems or dissatisfaction
-
Missing Service Records
Lack of maintenance history raises concerns
-
Outstanding Recalls
Unaddressed safety issues that need attention
Report Limitations
What reports cannot tell you
Not All Damage is Reported
Reports only include incidents that were officially documented. Minor accidents, private repairs, or unreported damage will not appear.
- • Cash-paid repairs without insurance claims
- • Minor parking lot damage
- • Private party repairs
- • Damage in areas with poor reporting
Mechanical Condition
Reports focus on accidents and title issues but provide limited information about the current mechanical condition of the vehicle.
- • Engine or transmission problems
- • Wear and tear issues
- • Maintenance neglect
- • Current safety defects
A clean report does not guarantee a problem-free vehicle. Always combine history reports with professional inspections and test drives.
Best Practices
Making the most of vehicle history reports
Get Reports Early
Request vehicle history reports before viewing the car to save time and identify potential issues upfront.
Verify VIN Accuracy
Always double-check that the VIN on the report matches the vehicle you are considering purchasing.
Professional Inspection
Combine history reports with professional mechanical inspections for complete peace of mind.
When to Get Multiple Reports
- • High-value vehicles ($20,000+)
- • Vehicles with concerning history
- • Import vehicles from other countries
- • When initial report seems incomplete
Cost Considerations
- • Single reports: $10-$40
- • Multiple reports: $20-$100
- • Unlimited plans: $50-$100/month
- • Consider cost vs. vehicle value
Shop with Confidence
All our vehicles come with detailed history reports