Before buying a classic, vintage, or used car it pays to find out its history. Vehicle history reports do just that. Huge databases now exist where all that's needed is the car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and a small payment. Once the VIN is run through these databases, a detailed vehicle history report comes back with information such as accident history, vehicle ownership, lemon check, recalls, warranty status, emissions test results, title records, and mileage checks.

 

By obtaining a vehicle history report, you will be in a much better bargaining position and you will know if the car is as sound as the seller says it is. For example, if the seller says that he has regularly serviced the car but failed to keep maintenance records, the vehicle history report can either back up his claim or contradict it. Likewise, if a seller says he's the car's original owner yet the history report shows several title changes, you will know that he's not being straightforward with you.

 

Knowing a vehicle's history gives you the confidence to purchase the car or keep looking. Whether the report comes back clean or with multiple red flags remains to be seen. Wouldn't you rather find out now instead of after it's too late? Arm yourself with knowledge - it's priceless!