When you’re in the market for a used car, a vehicle history report can be one of your most valuable tools. It tells the story of where the vehicle has been, what it’s been through, and whether the previous owner properly maintained it.
From accident records to ownership history, these documents provide key insights to help you make an informed purchase. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned car enthusiast, understanding what to note in a vehicle history report is crucial for making a decision you can feel confident about.
Confirm if Any Repairs Were Made by a Certified Professional
Checking the quality of repairs is a critical step when reviewing a vehicle history report. Repairs carried out by a certified professional ensure the integrity of the work and provide peace of mind about the car’s safety and performance.
Look for mentions of repairs done at reputable service centers or by technicians with manufacturer certifications. This information not only validates that the vehicle was cared for by professionals who know their stuff but also assures you that the parts used were likely of a high standard.
If an Accident Occurred, Check the Airbags
Airbags are among the most critical safety features in your vehicle, and ensuring they are in proper working condition is essential after an accident. Start by confirming whether the airbags deployed during the incident—this is usually in the vehicle history report.
If they deployed, check to see if they’ve been replaced and whether this work was performed by a certified professional. Improperly replaced or missing airbags can compromise safety in the event of a future collision.
Ensure There Are No Liens or Outstanding Loans
When purchasing a used car, confirm that there are no liens or outstanding loans tied to it. A lien gives a lender the legal right to the vehicle until the debt is paid off, so if the previous owner hasn’t settled their loan, you could find yourself in a sticky financial situation.
To avoid this, request a lien search or check the vehicle’s title history through reliable services such as your local DMV or online tools. A clean title not only ensures peace of mind but also guarantees that the car is legally yours.
Review the Number of Previous Owners and the Length of Ownership
The number of previous owners can tell you a surprising amount about a vehicle’s history. Ideally, fewer owners usually mean the car has fewer miles, less wear and tear, and usually a more consistent maintenance record. However, don’t immediately dismiss a car with multiple owners either—just be prepared to dig a little deeper.
For instance, frequent ownership changes could signal underlying issues, but it might also just mean the car was part of a leasing program or owned briefly for personal reasons. On top of that, take a look at how long each owner kept the car. Short ownership periods could point to potential red flags, while longer ownership might indicate the vehicle was reliable.
Look for Any “Rollbacks” or Inconsistencies in Odometer Readings
A car’s odometer can be a treasure trove of information, but it’s also something that requires a sharp eye and a bit of skepticism. Odometer rollbacks—where someone fraudulently reduces the mileage—can be a sneaky way to make a car appear younger than it really is.
To protect yourself, start by comparing the mileage with the car’s age and service records. Does it add up? If the car claims to have super low mileage but shows significant wear and tear—worn pedals, fading upholstery, or chipped paint—it might be worth asking a few hard questions. Additionally, cross-check the mileage listed on past inspection reports or maintenance receipts.
Check for Evidence of Routine Services
Regular maintenance is the heartbeat of a well-cared-for car, and evidence of routine services can offer a glimpse into how much an owner has loved their vehicle over the years. Start by checking the service records—oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and other routine tasks should be in the vehicle history report. A car should have a steady history of services at regular intervals.
Don’t forget to take a peek under the hood and look for signs of clean oil, a clean air filter, or recent replacements, such as belts or hoses. If the records are missing or if the car shows signs of neglect—dirty engine oil, worn-out wiper blades, or squeaky brakes—the previous owner likely wasn’t diligent.
Make Sure the Manufacturer Tackled Any Recalls
When buying a used car, confirm that any recalls have been addressed by the manufacturer. They’ll issue a recall to fix safety or performance issues and ignoring them could lead to serious problems on the road. To check, ask the seller for documentation showing completed recall repairs.
You can also take matters into your own hands by running the car’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website. The site is free to use and gives you a clear picture of any unaddressed issues. If there are outstanding recalls, don’t panic—many manufacturers will still perform these fixes at no charge, no matter the age of the car.
Confirm Whether or Not the Car Was a Taxi, Rideshare, or Fleet Vehicle
When buying a used car, dig into its past to see if it spent time as a taxi, rideshare vehicle, or part of a fleet. Why? These vehicles typically rack up higher mileage and experience more wear and tear than your average personal car.
Start by asking the seller directly if the previous owners ever used the car for commercial purposes—they’re legally obligated to be honest. For added assurance, run a vehicle history report through services like Carfax or AutoCheck, which often flag commercial use. Keep an eye out for telltale signs, too, such as unusual amounts of interior wear or specific stickers and mounts.
Look for Reports of Environmental Damage
Environmental damage can have long-term effects on a vehicle, so check if the car you’re eyeing has been exposed to floods, fires, or other natural disasters. Water damage from flooding, for example, can wreak havoc on electrical systems and lead to hidden rust issues down the line. Similarly, fire damage could weaken structural components or impact the car’s mechanical reliability.
To uncover these potential red flags, examine the vehicle history report as you usually would. Additionally, inspect the car closely for signs of musty odors, water stains, silt in unusual places, or discoloration under the hood. If you’re unsure, consider bringing a trusted mechanic along or arranging for a professional inspection.
Don’t rush the decision and always trust your instincts. Now that you know what to note on a vehicle history report, you’re well on your way to finding a reliable vehicle that fits your needs and budget.
At Warner INEOS Grenadier, we make it easy to find your perfect match, allowing you to access full CARFAX vehicle history reports with the click of a button. As a used SUV dealership, we offer a wide selection of top-quality used vehicles, complete with detailed reports and transparent pricing. Stop by our dealership or browse our online inventory today to find your next dream car!