Car history check: Why it’s crucial to your purchase decision

Whilst looking for a new car for my partner, we found a few great cars that suited our budget and had the specifications/extras we wanted. Before deciding to travel hundreds of miles to check them out (and save us time as well as money!), we discovered a great online tool that could provide us with a vehicle history check on the car. It gave us some useful information and other information we weren’t otherwise aware of, such as:

• if it had been in an accident (and if so, there are photos to show the damage)
• is there any finance still on the car
• previous owners history (which if a car has had a lot in a short amount of time, could indicate a car with problems)
• and if it had been used as a taxi!

The online tool by vcheck was invaluable for us! The following provides some background information on why you should consider a car history check. Below is a sample showing what you can see in the report.

Why is a car history check important?

Performing a car history check is essential to making an informed purchase decision. It provides important information that can impact the vehicle’s value and safety.

By conducting a thorough history check, you can uncover any potential issues, such as accidents, previous owners, and maintenance records. This knowledge can help you negotiate a fair price and ensure you make a safe and reliable purchase. Don’t overlook the importance of a car history check when considering buying a vehicle.

To recap, here are a few reasons why a vehicle history check is important:

• Identifying hidden issues: A car history check can help you identify hidden issues with the car. For example, the report can reveal if the car has been in a serious accident, had flood damage, or has a salvage title.
• Protecting your investment: By conducting a vehicle history check, you can protect your investment. The report can help you make an informed decision and avoid buying a car that will cost you more in repairs in the long run.
• Negotiating power: If the vehicle history check reveals issues with the car, you can use this information to negotiate a better price.
• Peace of mind: A car history check can provide you with peace of mind. Knowing the car’s past can help you feel more confident in your purchase and avoid potential problems down the road.

Types of car history check

When conducting a car history check, there are two types of reports available: free and paid.

Free vs. Paid Car History Checks

Free car history checks are available online, but they usually provide limited information about the vehicle. Paid car history checks are more comprehensive and provide more detailed information about the vehicle.

Different Types of Paid Car History Checks

There are several different types of paid car history checks available, including:

• Basic reports that provide information about the vehicle’s ownership history and title status
• Comprehensive reports that provide information about the vehicle’s accident history, service records, and more
• Speciality reports that provide information about specific aspects of the vehicle’s history, such as its accident history or ownership history

Choosing the right car history check for your needs

When choosing a car history check, it’s essential to select one that meets your specific needs. If you’re simply looking to verify the vehicle’s ownership history and title status, a basic report may be sufficient. However, if you want a more comprehensive report that includes information about the vehicle’s accident history and service records, a comprehensive report may be a better choice.

What information is included in a vehicle history check?

A car history check provides a wealth of information about a car’s past. Here are some of the main details you can expect to find in the report:

• Accidents: The report will show any accidents the car has been involved in, including the severity of the damage and whether the car was declared a total loss.
• Title and registration history: The report will show the car’s title and registration history, including any loans on the car.
• Ownership history: The report will show the car’s ownership history, including the number of previous owners and the length of time each owner held the car.
• Service and maintenance history: The report will show the car’s service and maintenance history, including oil changes, tyre rotations, and other repairs.
• Odometer readings: The report will show the car’s odometer readings, which can help you determine the car’s true mileage.

How to conduct a vehicle check?

You can conduct a vehicle check using the vehicle identification number (VIN), a unique 17-digit code that identifies the car. However, you can also conduct a car history check using a car registration number, and we recommend using the vcheck.uk website as it provides a detailed report of the car’s history, including all the information listed above.