Buying guide
Vehicle history and title checks, explained
Three free or low-cost government and nonprofit tools cover most title red flags. None of them replaces an inspection.
| Tool | What it shows | What it doesn’t |
|---|---|---|
| NMVTIS (vehiclehistory.gov) [1] | Title brands (e.g., salvage, junk, flood), latest odometer reading, total-loss history reported by insurers and junk/salvage yards, through approved data providers | Mechanical condition; many minor accidents and repairs |
| NICB VINCheck [2] | Whether participating insurers reported the car stolen and not recovered, or as a salvage/total loss | Cars from non-participating insurers; condition |
| NHTSA recall lookup [3] | Open safety recalls by VIN | Ownership or title history |
How to use them together
- Run the VIN on all three before you spend money on an inspection.
- Compare the odometer reading on record with the car and the service records.
- Compare the title state and brand with the paper title the seller shows you.
- Then book an independent inspection. The FTC notes a history report may list accidents and flood damage but typically won’t list mechanical problems [4].
The FTC points buyers to vehiclehistory.gov as a starting point, and notes paid reports can add accident and repair history [5].
Sources
- U.S. DOJ: National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (vehiclehistory.gov)
- NICB VINCheck (free theft and salvage lookup)
- NHTSA recall lookup by VIN
- FTC: Buying a Used Car From a Dealer
- FTC consumer alert: What to know when buying a used car online (July 2, 2024)