What information does the CAR FAX report provide?
A vehicle history report is the key to a used car’s past: it gives you information about the history of the vehicle you’re interested in before you buy it.
CARFAX allows customers to search for a vehicle’s history using each vehicle’s “fingerprint” – the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which is printed and stamped on various parts of your vehicle. It also appears on the vehicle’s title, inspection reports and insurance policies. Your car’s VIN has been with it from the beginning, which makes it possible to view its recorded past, and can reveal some dark episodes.
A typical CARFAX vehicle history report provides an appraised value based on the vehicle’s history. Most websites will give you an estimated value based on the mileage and relative condition of the vehicle, but CARFAX provides more. The CARFAX report considers value based on historical data such as: number of owners, past accidents, open recalls, problems encountered, and maintenance records.
Vehicle Overview
This part of the CARFAX USA report lays out the basics. Some highlights include transmission, body type, vehicle identification number or VIN, interior trim level, model name, make, and year. This section will tell you the number of owners of the vehicle, whether it was used for rental, commercial, or personal use, the mileage, and whether any damage was reported. The report may also include information about the dealership and whether the car is for sale. It may also include ratings and customer reviews.
Ownership History
Information on what states the car had registration in, previous owners, and mileage. This is where the data gets more detailed. Individualized information is reported, such as when each owner purchased the vehicle, length of ownership, location of registration, approximate mileage added to the vehicle each year, and type of use, commercial or personal.
Title History
This also provides information about each owner. This section provides information such as whether the vehicle has had fire or flood damage, as well as other damages that could result in a title violation. This is where CARFAX also reports the accuracy of the odometer information.
Additional History
This section contains important information about damage sustained during the course of the vehicle’s operation, the owners’ claims to the insurance company. This section reports accidents and damage, including airbag deployment, structural damage, and whether the vehicle has ever been reported as a total loss. You will find out if the vehicle still has any warranties or if there is an open manufacturer recall.
Detailed History
Finally, this section provides a general timeline showing key events. Detailed information that has been gathered from various sources. For example, vehicle maintenance services, inspections performed while the vehicle was in operation. The list may include information such as the first pre-sale inspection at the car dealership, purchases, accidents, service center visits, and subsequent sales. Credit history (sometimes called liens), safety and emissions test results are also included. If the vehicle was in an accident and damage was reported, it will be listed in this section. A detailed historical report may include the extent of damage using a damage severity scale that includes a graphic that illustrates where the vehicle was damaged and the severity of the damage.
Analyzing the last section is particularly important. If you initially know you are purchasing a broken-down vehicle, information from it will help clarify the details of the accident in which the vehicle was involved, assessing the extent of damage and possible hidden defects.
A Carfax report can help you make an informed decision about buying a used car. It provides essential information about the vehicle’s history, gives you insight into any potential problems, and helps you avoid buying a vehicle with a hidden past.
A vehicle history report can give you a glimpse into a vehicle’s past and can be a good first step when deciding to buy a used car. But these reports won’t give you all the information you need to get a complete picture of the vehicle you’re considering. It’s still important to see the car in person and get a comprehensive inspection from a mechanic before you buy.