Madison Genthry 
Buying a used car can be a great way to save money but it’s not without risk. How do you know the car you’re looking at doesn’t have hidden problems or a shady past? That’s where car history tools come in, your secret weapon to make an informed and confident purchase. Here are the top 10 tools to help you find undocumented car problems with history reports so you can buy with peace of mind.
1. Motorscan – The Full Picture
Motorscan is the most comprehensive tool to find hidden car problems. With Motorscan you can get reports on accident history, odometer discrepancies, service history and ownership transfers. Its real-time data updates mean the information you get is current and accurate. Motorscan’s reports are also user friendly so first time buyers and seasoned car enthusiasts can use it. Motorscan gives you the full background of the car so you can make an informed decision.
Whether you’re worried about accidents, odometer fraud, or unreported ownership changes, Motorscan has you covered.
2. Carfax – The Big Name
Carfax is one of the most well known names in vehicle history reports. This tool has information on accidents, prior owners, service records and product recalls. Its huge database and stable platform makes it a great choice for car buyers on the go. Carfax is portable so you can access reports on your phone, tablet or computer.
If you want brand reputation and trust, Carfax is a good option. But its reports can be more expensive than others so it’s best for buyers who are willing to pay for detailed info.
3. AutoCheck – Scored Reports
AutoCheck makes the decision easier by giving each vehicle an index score based on its history. This score allows you to compare similar cars and see which one is the best value. Partnered with Experian, AutoCheck’s data is accurate, reliable and up-to-date.
The scored system is great for buyers who want a quick snapshot of the vehicle without going into details. AutoCheck may not be as detailed as others but its simplicity and ease of use makes it a popular choice among buyers.
4. VINCheck.info – Free and Full
If you’re on a tight budget, VINCheck.info is a good option. This free tool gives you full vehicle history reports on past accidents, theft records, title issues and more. It may not have all the premium features of other tools but VINCheck.info is a good starting point to find potential problems.
For buyers looking for budget friendly options, VINCheck.info gives you information without any financial commitment. But note that the data may not be as comprehensive as paid ones.
5. National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) – Government Approved
NMVTIS is a government approved resource to prevent buyer fraud and protect consumers from unsafe vehicles. This tool has information on branded titles, theft records and severe accidents. NMVTIS may not have all the advanced features of private companies but it’s a trusted source of verified data.
For buyers who want reliability and accuracy, NMVTIS is a good option. Its government backed credentials means the information is legit so it’s a good choice to find hidden car problems.
6. InstaVIN – Instant Reports
As the name suggests, InstaVIN gives you instant vehicle history reports. These reports have title verification, accident history and odometer readings. InstaVIN is affordable and easy to use so it’s a practical choice for budget conscious buyers.
One of InstaVIN’s best features is its speed. If you need quick info on a vehicle’s history, InstaVIN gives you accurate data without the wait. Its user-friendly interface makes it a popular choice among buyers.
7. VinAudit – Affordable
VinAudit is another budget friendly option to get vehicle history reports. Partnered with NMVTIS, VinAudit gives you reliable information on title issues, salvage titles and more. This tool is for buyers who want detailed reports without breaking the bank.
VinAudit’s straightforward approach gives you the information you need without the hassle. Its affordability makes it a good option for budget conscious buyers looking for accurate data.
8. EpicVIN – Blockchain Powered
EpicVIN is different by using blockchain technology to ensure accuracy and transparency of its reports. This innovative approach means the data is tamper proof and trustworthy. EpicVIN’s reports have accidents, title issues and other important details so it’s a great tool for tech savvy buyers.
For those who want the latest technology and data integrity, EpicVIN is a good option. Its blockchain powered system adds an extra layer of trust so the information you get is accurate and reliable.
9. myCarfax – Service History at Your Fingertips
myCarfax is focused on giving you detailed service history reports for vehicles. It may not be as comprehensive as others but it’s a good tool to find maintenance patterns and potential red flags. MyCarfax is good for buyers who want to know a vehicle’s maintenance history.
For those who want service records over other details, myCarfax is a simple solution. Its focus on maintenance is a good addition to other tools on this list. If you’re looking to sell an old vehicle instead of repairing it, exploring cash for junk options can help you get value from a car that no longer serves you.
10. ClearVIN – Straightforward
ClearVIN gives you straightforward vehicle history reports, salvage records, theft data and odometer readings. Its user-friendly interface and fast results makes it a popular choice among buyers who want clear and concise information.
ClearVIN’s simplicity is good for those who want no frills. It may not have as much detail as others but it’s a good option to find essential info about a vehicle.
Which One to Choose?
With so many options, it depends on your needs and priorities. Consider these factors: depth of information, ease of use, cost and unique features. For example:
- Motorscan: Best for detailed info and real time updates.
- Carfax: For those who value brand reputation and lots of data.
- AutoCheck: For buyers who want score based comparisons.
- VINCheck.info: Budget friendly for basic info.
- NMVTIS: Government approved and reliable.
- InstaVIN: For quick and cheap reports.
- VinAudit: For budget conscious buyers and detailed reports.
- EpicVIN: For tech savvy buyers who want blockchain powered accuracy.
- myCarfax: For service history analysis.
- ClearVIN: For essential info.
Bottom Line
Buying a used car doesn’t have to be a shot in the dark. Use the right tools and you can find out about any vehicle and avoid costly mistakes. Motorscan is the top choice but each tool on this list has its own advantages.
Begin with Motorscan and then use others to fine tune. Now you’re ready to buy a used car with no regrets.
