Learn where a report ends and good research begins.
Practical, independent steps for evaluating records, documents, condition, and sellers.
How to check a VIN, step by step
Find the 17-character VIN, confirm it matches every plate and document, decode identity, then decide whether a history report is the next step. Checking a VIN is not the same as buying vehicle history.
Read the guide →How to check a used car before you pay
Work in order: documents and VIN first, optional history report, then inspection and payment. A vehicle history report cannot see a rushed test drive or a remaining lien.
Read the guide →Where to find a vehicle VIN
Locate the 17-character VIN on the car and on official documents, then compare every copy.
Read the guide →How to check car mileage
Build an odometer timeline from documents and CARFAX readings, then compare it with wear on the car.
Read the guide →How to check car accident history
Use CARFAX accident and damage records as one input, then inspect repair quality that a report cannot see.
Read the guide →What is a VIN?
A 17-character vehicle identification number identifies one vehicle. Decoding it is not the same as a history report.
Read the guide →How to check whether a car is stolen
Combine VIN identity, documents, CARFAX theft records when they exist, and official checks before you pay.
Read the guide →