Buying a used car can be risky business if you don’t do your due diligence. One of the most important steps is to get the vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) checked for any unsavory histories like past accidents, flood damage, or odometer rollback fraud. Fortunately, there are ways to get a free VIN check that can alert you to potential issues before you seal the deal.
What is a VIN check?
The VIN is a 17-character code that uniquely identifies a vehicle. By decoding the VIN and cross-checking it against databases like NMVIC and vehicle history report providers, you can uncover details about the car’s background, such as:
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Previous ownership
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Accident and damage records
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Odometer readings
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Lemon/manufacturer buyback status
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Flood damage
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Theft records
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Recall notices
This insider information can help you steer clear of clunkers, cut your losses on a bad deal, and negotiate a better price if issues are uncovered.
How to get a free VIN check
While some vehicle history report providers charge for VIN checks, there are a few legitimate free (or cheap) options:
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National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVIC). This federal database allows you to check for brand history like “junk,” “salvage,” or “flood” titles that may have been issued in another state for just $3.
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Vehicle History Report Samples. Sites like vehiclehistory.com let you view a sample report for free by entering the VIN. This provides basic details on past owners, accidents, and service records and can flag any major issues.
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NICB VIN Check. The National Insurance Crime Bureau offers a free VIN check service to detect if a vehicle has been reported as stolen—an important red flag.
When buying from a private seller, always get the VIN beforehand and run it through the above free checking services. For added peace of mind, you can also purchase an affordable comprehensive report from providers like CarFax for around $40.
