How to Check Auto History for Free

Vehicle history reports tell you if a car has been involved in a reported accident.

Buying a used vehicle is inherently stressful, because the purchase is so large, and it's nearly impossible to know if the car is in as good of shape as it looks. Many companies offer vehicle history reports that detail the complete history of the vehicle, such as maintenance, damage suffered, number of owners and last odometer reading. No company offers a completely free history report to potential car buyers, but you can often access the reports from car dealers.

Instructions

1. Access dealer websites. Car dealers often have free history reports for most of their used vehicles. Look for the "View Free History Report" link or something similar once you click on the car you wish to further inspect. After you click the link, a page will appear and list detailed information about the history of the car.

2. Ask the dealer for a free report. If you would rather shop for cars in person, you can also ask the salesman for a free history report. Most dealers know that people want a history report before purchasing a vehicle, so many dealerships oblige.

3. Sign up for a free trial. Vehicle history report websites cost money, but you can sometimes find a free trial offer at certain websites. Sign up for the free trial, enter your car's VIN and look at the history report. You can find your 17-digit VIN on the driver's side dash. You can also find it by visiting the dealer website. Even if the dealer doesn't offer a free report, they will give you the VIN.

References

• Carfax: Carfax Launches Online Auction Tool