man in white shirt standing beside black car
man in white shirt standing beside black car
Check Available Vehicle Records

Independent 3-Step Research Process

Three Steps Before Buying a Used Car

Use this independent process to locate the VIN, review available vehicle records, understand report limitations, and arrange an independent mechanical inspection before purchase.

Affiliate disclosure: This independent website may earn a commission if you purchase through certain links, at no additional cost to you.

Independent 3-Step Process

Research Before You Buy

01
02
03

Locate the VIN

Review Available Records

Arrange an Independent Inspection

Find the 17-character Vehicle Identification Number on the driver’s-side dashboard, door jamb, registration, or insurance documents. Confirm that the VIN matches across the vehicle and paperwork.

Review available information about title history, recorded mileage, reported accidents, theft, recalls, liens, and prior use. Record availability and completeness vary by source.

Ask a qualified independent mechanic to inspect the vehicle’s current condition. A physical inspection may identify mechanical, structural, or safety concerns that do not appear in a history report.

Close-up of a mechanic's hands pointing at a car's undercarriage on a lift, bright workshop lighting, focus on suspension components.
Close-up of a mechanic's hands pointing at a car's undercarriage on a lift, bright workshop lighting, focus on suspension components.

Step 3: Physical Inspection

Arrange an Independent Mechanical Inspection

Vehicle history reports may provide useful background, but they do not show every aspect of a vehicle’s current condition. A qualified independent mechanic can examine mechanical, structural, and safety-related components and identify concerns that may not appear in available records.

View the FAQ

Have Questions?

Find answers about VINs, available vehicle records, report limitations, and independent mechanical inspections.