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The first step taken when buying a used car should be to secure a detailed vehicle history report listing its service record, any serious problems, title transfers and other essential data. Often referred to as a VIN check, the vehicle history report is essentially a biography of that specific car or truck, from its first sale and title transfer to the last ownership. It contains important information including DMV transactions, registered data, and odometer readings.
While the service records offers a great insight into how well the car was maintained, the critical section is the list of any and all accidents that have occurred with the vehicle, along with the repairs that have been made. Any major issue would include collision damage, police use, theft, hail, water damage, fire, persistent mechanical problems or anything reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles.
To secure a qualified vehicle history report on any car or truck you wish to purchase, all you need is the identifying 17-character alphanumeric VIN sequence that resides on the right side of the vehicle at the bottom of the windshield. Some models contain the same number on the body located on the driver side door jam. The VIN number, or Vehicle Information Number, works as an automobile's fingerprint used to identify that exact car or truck. Additionally, the number is often found on the owner's insurance card as a way to identify the insurance carrier and policy number on that specific vehicle.
Once you found a car or truck you would like to purchase, simply write down the identifying 17-character VIN number. It can be inputted into a reputable vehicle history report website that will instantly bring up a variety of important data for you to consider. Searching through the millions of DMV records in their database, along with detailed descriptions from the car manufacturer, you will be able to review all issues, problems, legalities and information on the vehicle to make a qualified informed decision on whether you should purchase it or not.
On the report you find a variety of categories to help make sense of the information it provides. You will see a report summary, mileage accuracy, lemon check, accident check, recall check, vehicle specifications, ownership check, and warranty check, along with a complete detailed list of the vehicle history.
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