- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): If you have the VIN, you can use it to pull up basic information about the car's history. You can find the VIN on the vehicle's title, registration, or insurance card.
- Other Documentation: Collect any additional documents you have, such as maintenance records, repair bills, or a CarFax or AutoCheck report, if available.
Step 2: Check Online Resources
1. Carfax and AutoCheck: These are two widely-used services that provide detailed vehicle history reports. They include information like previous owners, accidents or major repairs, odometer readings, and more. Fees usually apply for these reports.
2. National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB): The NICB's website offers a VINCheck service, which can tell you if a car has been reported stolen or has a salvage title.
3. U.S. Department of Justice: Check the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) database for information about the car's title history, including any liens or salvage titles.
Step 3: Contact the Previous Owner (If Possible)
1. If you can obtain contact information for the previous owner, reach out to them to ask about the car's history, maintenance, and any issues they encountered.
Step 4: Visit a Mechanic
1. Take the car to a trusted mechanic for a thorough inspection. They can identify any mechanical problems or issues that might not be evident during a casual look.
Step 5: Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI)
1. Before finalizing the purchase, get a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic or technician to identify any underlying problems or maintenance needs.
Step 6: Review and Negotiate
1. Use the information you've gathered to review the car's condition, ownership history, and current market value. This can help you negotiate a fair price with the seller.
Remember that you can't always guarantee that you'll find out everything about a car's history. Being thorough in your research and getting professional inspections will help you make an informed decision when purchasing a previously owned car.
