How to Check a Vehicle History Report (VIN Check Guide for Used Cars)

A car’s history report is like a detailed medical history. It tells you everything about the vehicle in question, starting from its regular check-ups to major repairs, accidents, mileage, title status, and ownership changes. In fact, even the lack of a history report tells you a lot about a used car, which is why requesting a history report is non-negotiable.

Ideally, the car history report should cover the past 3–5 years or 50,000–75,000 miles, whichever is more recent, to give a clear picture of maintenance and incidents.

In this guide, we’ve detailed everything you need to know about a vehicle’s history report, how to obtain it, and how it should influence your decision when buying a used car.

How to Check a Car’s History?

Here are a few practical steps you can take to check a vehicle’s history report:

Step One: Locate the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

The VIN is a unique 17-character code that acts like the car’s fingerprint. You can usually find it:

• On the dashboard, visible through the windshield.
• Inside the driver-side door frame.
• In the engine bay.
• On official documents such as the title, registration, or insurance paperwork.

Be sure to write it down carefully, as even a single incorrect character can result in a report for the wrong vehicle.

Step Two: Run the VIN Through Online Vehicle History Platforms

Use the approved online platform listed on the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) website, which can be found here, to obtain a vehicle’s history report.

These reports compile information from thousands of sources, including insurance companies, repair facilities, and the DMV.

They can reveal:

• Accidents and damage.
• Title brands (like salvage or rebuilt).
• Theft or recovery records.
• Service history.

Please keep in mind that most reports aren’t free. As of 2025/2026, they typically cost $12–$30+, depending on how detailed the report is and which platform you use.

Step Three: Check the Seller’s Records

Ask the seller for maintenance receipts, inspection reports, or service booklets. Look for consistent care, such as oil changes, brake work, tire rotations, and scheduled manufacturer maintenance. These records give you insight into how well the car was looked after and can confirm the information in the online report.

Step Four: Contact Repair Shops

If the previous owner regularly used a particular repair shop, you can sometimes request service records directly from the shop. Provide the VIN and proof of purchase intent, as some shops may require the seller’s authorization. Even if they don’t release full records, many shops can verify dates of major services or repairs. This helps confirm the car’s history and fills in gaps that online reports or the seller’s documents might miss.

Final Step: Compare and Cross-Check All Sources

Bring together the online history report, seller-provided documents, and repair shop confirmations. Cross-check details like mileage, service dates, and any reported accidents or repairs. Look for inconsistencies or gaps that could signal hidden issues. By comparing all these sources, you get the most complete and reliable picture of the car’s past

What Information Should You Check Before Buying?

When you’re reviewing a vehicle’s history, make sure you focus on the following:

• Accident reports and damage records. Depending on how big the accident was, the car might have had structural damage, the airbags might’ve been deployed, all of which indicate possible major issues, unless the repairs were of high standards.
• Regular upkeep records. Regular oil changes (e.g., every 7,500 to 15,000 miles or 6–12 months, depending on the vehicle and oil type) show that the previous owner was careful in keeping up with the car’s maintenance. You should also see evidence of routine services such as brake inspections or replacements, tire rotations, fluid top-offs, and scheduled manufacturer maintenance, which together suggest the car was cared for.
• Mileage records. Compare the odometer readings across service records, inspections, and title transfers. The mileage should increase steadily over time; that’s a good sign the car’s history is accurate. Sudden drops, long gaps, or mileage that doesn’t make sense for the car’s age can point to odometer tampering or inaccurate reporting.
• Check theft & recovery records. Even when a stolen car is returned, it can have hidden problems like electrical issues, interior damage, or ownership and registration issues that make the car harder to insure, register, or resell. Free tools such as NICB VINCheck, which checks a vehicle’s VIN for reported thefts and insurance total-loss records, are a good starting point.
• Recalls & safety issues. Take a moment to see whether all manufacturer recalls have been taken care of. Recalls often involve important safety components like airbags, brakes, or steering systems. You can check a car’s recall status through official sources like NHTSA, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (previously SaferCar.gov). If any recalls are still open, they should be resolved before you buy, since they can affect both safety and future ownership costs.

Most Common Red Flags to Watch For

Even with a vehicle history report, some warning signs indicate trouble, so keep an eye out for:

• Accident clusters: multiple accidents or repeated damage to the same area are usually a sign of recurring problems or even poor repairs.
• Flood or water damage: musty odors, rust in unusual places, or extensive electrical repairs can indicate flood damage.
• Title issues: salvage, rebuilt, or branded titles reduce value and complicate resale, insurance, and financing.
• Mileage discrepancies: sudden drops or unrealistic mileage increases suggest odometer tampering.
• Gaps in service history: long periods without maintenance indicate negligence or even hidden damage.
• Unusually low price: if the car seems too cheap compared to the market, it could hide serious issues.

What Vehicle History Reports Do Not Show?

No matter how detailed a history report is, the following are usually not included:

• Minor accidents that were not reported to insurance.
• Routine maintenance done either at home or in small independent shops.
• DIY repairs, replacements, or upgrades done by the owner.
• Repair quality.
• Any issues or accidents that happened right before the sale might not have made it back in any database.

Why a Vehicle History Check Isn’t Enough on Its Own?

A vehicle history report provides valuable context, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. As mentioned, some accidents, repairs, or maintenance may not appear, and even reported information can sometimes be incomplete or delayed.

That’s why you still need to complete a hands-on inspection, whether you do it yourself or have a mechanic check the car. Moreover, this is particularly important when comparing certified pre-owned (CPO) cars and standard used cars, since they come with different inspection standards, warranties, and risk levels.

Together, a history report and a physical inspection help you avoid surprises and buy with confidence.