Understanding Carfax and AutoCheck: A Comprehensive Guide to Vehicle History Reports
Introduction
Autobasics wants you to know when you’re considering buying a used car, understanding its history is crucial for making an informed decision. Two leading providers of vehicle history reports—Carfax and AutoCheck—can offer valuable insights. This article will guide you through what these reports cover, the differences between Carfax and AutoCheck, and why you should consider using them.
What is a Vehicle History Report?
Understanding the Basics
A Vehicle History Report (VHR) provides comprehensive information about a car’s history, such as accident history, ownership details, and service records. Obtaining a VHR is a critical step in the used car buying process as it allows you to make an informed decision based on facts rather than assumptions.
Components of a VHR
A standard VHR will include the following information:
1. Ownership History: Number of owners, how long each owner had the car, and types of usage (personal, commercial, etc.).
2. Accident History: Any accidents reported, severity, and repairs done.
3. Title History: Checks for salvaged titles or liens on the car.
4. Mileage: Mileage readings at various points in time.
5. Service Records: Routine maintenance and any repairs done.
6. Recalls and Warranties: Information on manufacturer recalls or any remaining warranty.
Carfax vs AutoCheck
Both Carfax and AutoCheck provide VHRs, but they differ in some areas:
Data Sources
– Carfax: Primarily sourced from over 100,000 data sources including dealerships, service shops, and insurance companies.
– AutoCheck: Sources information from auctions, police reports, and more, including the Experian database.
Scoring System
– Carfax: Offers qualitative information but doesn’t provide a numerical score for the vehicle.
– AutoCheck: Provides an AutoCheck Score, a numerical rating that enables easier comparison between vehicles.
Pricing
– Carfax: Typically, more expensive, ranging from $39.99 for a single report to $99.99 for six reports.
– AutoCheck: Generally cheaper, with a single report priced at around $24.99 and 25 reports for $49.99.
Reliability
Both services are considered reliable, but they may miss some information that hasn’t been reported. It’s generally a good idea to use both for a comprehensive overview.
Why Use Vehicle History Reports?
1. Informed Decision: Knowledge is power when negotiating.
2. Peace of Mind: A clean report can ease concerns over potential hidden issues.
3. Financial Savings: Knowing the car’s history can save you from costly future repairs.
How to Obtain a Vehicle History Report
1. Identify the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): Typically found on the dashboard or inside the driver-side door.
2. Visit the Website: Go to either Carfax or AutoCheck’s website.
3. Enter the VIN: Input the VIN and proceed to purchase the report.
FAQ
What should I do if the VHR shows an accident history?
If the report shows an accident history, consider getting the car inspected by a mechanic to assess the level of repair done.
Can I trust these reports entirely?
While reliable, VHRs may miss unreported incidents. Always get a pre-purchase inspection for complete peace of mind.
Do all used cars have a Vehicle History Report?
No, VHRs are only generated when there’s a history to report. If the car is very new or hasn’t changed hands, a report might not exist.
Can I get a free Vehicle History Report?
Some dealerships offer free Carfax or AutoCheck reports for the cars in their inventory. However, independent reports generally cost money.
Conclusion
Autobasics knows understanding a used car’s history is crucial before making a purchase. Both Carfax and AutoCheck offer valuable insights, but they have their pros and cons. Consider using both reports for a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle you’re interested in. Happy car hunting with Autobasics!