When buying a used car in Nova Scotia, understanding how to decode a vehicle history report is crucial to avoiding potential problems. A vehicle history report offers a detailed view into the background of a vehicle, such as title information, accident and damage reports, service and maintenance records, and recalls and safety information. In this guide from Race Auto Group, we will walk you through the key sections of a vehicle history report to ensure you make an informed decision when buying a used vehicle.
Understanding the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
The vehicle identification number, aka the VIN, is your vehicle’s unique identifier. In other words, it’s thought of as the vehicle’s fingerprint. When browsing used vehicles for sale, inside each vehicle, you can typically find the VIN on the driver’s side dashboard or door. What this 17-character code will tell you is the vehicle’s country of origin, manufacturer, model, and year of production. The VIN on the vehicle should match the VIN on the vehicle history report.
Title Information in a Vehicle History Report
The title information in a report refers to the legal ownership status of a vehicle and will give a history of ownership changes. If the car has had many owners, it may indicate that it’s been moved across provincial lines.
It’s important to know the difference between a clean title and branded title. A clean title means no significant damage history. A branded title indicates the vehicle may have gone through a prior salvage or rebuild. What this often indicates is that the car was in a major accident and was declared a total loss by the insurance company.
Accident and Damage Reports
Look at the accident history of a used vehicle. Any major accident can cause long-term mechanical or safety issues. As an example, if there’s been frame damage, the vehicle may not be as safe in future accidents and could have alignment or handling issues. Refer to the documented repairs for information on what repairs your vehicle has undergone. Even if there are repairs indicated, it is still recommended to get a professional mechanic to inspect the vehicle.
Odometer Readings
A vehicle history report will include the vehicle’s mileage history and odometer readings. Look for irregularities, such as if there could have been a rollback or tampering with the number. Compare the mileage indicated with the average mileage for the vehicle’s age. High mileage could be a sign that it was a fleet vehicle whereas low mileage likely means it was driven minimally. In most cases, you will find consistent mileage reports that indicate normal use.
Service and Maintenance Records
A vehicle’s service history and maintenance records are included in its history report as well. This provides you with records of routine maintenance and major repairs.
- If the vehicle has been receiving regular oil changes, tire rotations, and routine services, it means it’s likely a more reliable vehicle as it has been adequately maintained.
- If there are major repairs – such as engine or transmission replacements – this is a sign of past issues that may or may not indicate its present-day condition.
- When there is a lack of service records or long gaps between servicing, this is the red flag to watch for as it means the vehicle has not been properly maintained.
Safety Recalls in a Vehicle History Report
See if the vehicle has any outstanding safety recalls that have not been addressed. In many cases, these involve airbags, brakes, and other critical components. Fortunately, recall issues are usually fixed for free by the manufacturer. It is best to get these resolved before purchasing to ensure the safety and functionality of the vehicle are not compromised.
Get a Vehicle History Report When You Buy Your Next Used Car at Race Auto Group
Thoroughly review the vehicle history report you receive when looking into buying a used car at Race Auto Group. This way, you know what the vehicle has been through and what repairs have been done on any used car, truck, or SUV. As your used car dealership in Halifax, Truro, and Lower Sackville, we are happy to provide a detailed history report for any vehicle on our lot to help you buy with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions that come up when discussing how to decode a vehicle history report.
Do I need a vehicle history report to buy or register a used vehicle?
No, a vehicle history report is to simply inform you of a vehicle’s past, including its ownership history, accident records, mileage, and title information.
Is there a cost to obtaining a vehicle history report?
No, a vehicle history report is provided free of charge to all of our customers. Any vehicle owner can also get a free vehicle history report online through various websites.
Will a vehicle history report show if a vehicle was used as a rental or fleet?
Yes, your vehicle history report should indicate clearly if the vehicle was a rental, fleet, or commercial vehicle. This detail is important as a fleet or rental vehicle can have higher mileage and more wear but is typically better maintained over time.
