When you are shopping for a pre-owned vehicle, a vehicle history report (like Carfax or AutoCheck) is one of the most valuable tools at your disposal. It provides a detailed look into a car's past so you can buy with total confidence.

However, looking at pages of data can feel overwhelming if you don't know what to look for. Here is a quick guide on the four most important sections to check on any vehicle history report:

1. Title History & Problems This is the most critical section to review first. You want to see a guaranteed "Clean Title." Be on the look out for major red flag alerts such as:

  • Salvage / Rebuilt: The car was previously declared a total loss by an insurance company and then rebuilt.

  • Lemon Title: The manufacturer bought the car back due to a recurring, unresolved defect.

  • Odometer Rollback: An alert showing the current mileage on the dashboard is lower than what was previously reported to the DMV.

2. Accident and Damage History Most reports categorize past damage from "Minor" to "Severe."

  • Minor Damage: This usually refers to cosmetic issues like scratches, minor dents, or bumper scuffs from parking lot mishaps. These are very common and shouldn't scare you away.

  • Severe Damage: This often involves airbag deployment or structural/frame damage. You want to look closely at where the impact occurred and ensure the vehicle was professionally repaired.

3. Number of Owners & Type of Use Fewer owners generally means a more consistent maintenance history, so a one- or two-owner car is always a great find. Additionally, look at the Type of Use. The report will indicate if the vehicle was a personal car, a lease, or a rental. Rental and lease vehicles often see steady, scheduled maintenance, while personal vehicles show how long a single owner cared for the car.

4. Service History Timeline A vehicle history report with consistent service records is a major green flag! Look for a steady timeline of regular oil changes, tire rotations, and routine maintenance. A well-documented service history proves that the previous owner stayed on top of preventative care, meaning the vehicle is much more likely to be reliable for you down the road.

We believe in complete transparency, and we want you to feel great about your next investment. If you have questions about the history of any vehicle on our lot, just ask—we are always happy to help you walk through the paperwork!