How to Check a Car’s History

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a critical element in checking a car's history. The VIN is a unique code consisting of 17 characters that serves as the specific identity for each vehicle. You can find the VIN in several places on the car, typically on the dashboard near the windshield on the driver's side or on the driver's side door frame. The VIN is also listed on the vehicle's registration and insurance documents. Having the VIN allows you to obtain a comprehensive vehicle history report, which includes vital information about the car's past repairs, accidents, and much more.

How to Locate the VIN

In Malaysia, the VIN is typically located in the same places as in other countries. Common locations include:

• Dashboard: Look at the dashboard from outside the car through the windshield on the driver’s side. The VIN is often visible in this area.
• Driver’s Side Door Frame: Open the driver’s side door and check the area where the door latches. The VIN is usually found on a sticker or metal plate in this spot.
• Engine Block: In some vehicles, the VIN is also stamped onto the engine block.

Vehicle History Report Services

Once you have the VIN, the next step is to use a vehicle history report service to obtain detailed information. Services like Carfax and AutoCheck are popular choices that provide thorough vehicle history reports using the VIN. To get a report, you need to enter the VIN and pay a small fee. These reports provide essential details about the car, including accident history, repair records, and ownership status. Typically, the report will also include information about whether the car has been subject to recalls. For a comprehensive guide on what to look for in a report, refer to articles that detail what to watch out for when buying a used car.

Key Information in the Report

A vehicle history report contains several key pieces of information that you should scrutinize carefully:

• Accident History: This is one of the most critical pieces of information in the report. It reveals whether the car has been involved in any accidents and provides details about the extent of the damage and any repairs that were made. Accidents can significantly affect a car's reliability and safety, and serious accidents can cause long-term issues even after repairs.
• Title Information: Ensure the car has a clean title status. A clean title means the car has no major legal issues or severe structural problems. Avoid cars with salvage or rebuilt titles, as these indicate the vehicle has been significantly damaged and repaired, which can lead to potential problems down the road.
• Odometer Reading: Verify the car's mileage to ensure it aligns with the seller's claims. Odometer fraud, where the mileage is rolled back to make the car appear less used, is a common issue in the used car market. Inconsistent or suspicious mileage readings can be a red flag.
• Ownership History: Look into how many previous owners the car has had. A car with multiple past owners may indicate recurring problems or dissatisfaction. Additionally, check how the car was used—whether it was a personal vehicle, part of a fleet, or a rental car. Fleet and rental cars often undergo more wear and tear compared to personal vehicles.

Additional Checks

Besides the vehicle history report, there are several additional checks you should perform to ensure the car is in good condition:

• Recalls: Check if the car has any outstanding recalls. Recalls are issued by manufacturers to address safety or performance issues. It's crucial to ensure that any recalls have been addressed by previous owners or through authorized dealers.
• Service Records: Review the car's maintenance and repair records. Regular maintenance is essential for the longevity and reliability of any vehicle. Look for records of routine services like oil changes, as well as major repairs. A well-maintained car is likely to be more reliable and perform better in the long run.