When purchasing a used car, thoroughly checking its history is essential. This process helps avoid unpleasant surprises and unnecessary expenses. In this article, we will explain how to properly check a car’s history using its VIN code and how Autohistory can assist you in this process.
Step 1: Obtain the Car’s VIN Code
The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique 17-character code assigned to every vehicle. This code contains information about the car, such as its manufacturer, model, year of production, and even the factory where it was built. You can find the VIN code in several places on the vehicle:
- On the dashboard (in front of the windshield on the driver’s side);
- Inside the driver’s side door (on the door pillar);
- In the vehicle’s paperwork.
Once you have the VIN code, you can move on to checking the car’s history.
Step 2: Use Our Online Service to Check the Car’s History
There is a specialized online service for checking a car’s history using the VIN code – Autohistory. This site provides detailed information about the vehicle, including data about last bid, accidents, technical condition, damage photos and much more.
On Autohistory, you can access the following information:
- Registration dates and locations;
- Accident history and damage details;
- Odometer readings;
- Participation in auctions (Copart, IAAI, and others).
These details help you avoid buying a car with potential problems and allow you to make an informed decision.
Step 3: Check the Car’s Auction History
If the car was sold at auctions such as Copart or IAAI, it could indicate that the vehicle has been involved in accidents. On Autohistory, you can find full details of the car’s auction history, along with photographs from the auction that can help you assess the extent of the damage.
Step 4: Analyze the Data and Make Your Decision
After receiving the report based on the VIN code, it’s important to carefully analyze all the data. Pay attention to:
- Discrepancies in the odometer reading;
- Involvement in accidents;
- Other factors that may affect your decision.
Keep in mind that a car with a clean history holds a higher market value. If the report reveals serious issues, this may be a reason to reconsider your decision or negotiate a price reduction with the seller.
Conclusion
Checking a car’s history before buying is a crucial step that can save you money and prevent unpleasant situations. By using the VIN code and services like Autohistory, you can obtain comprehensive information about the vehicle’s past and make an informed decision. Don’t rely solely on the seller’s word—always verify everything yourself to be sure about your purchase!
