1What Reports Include
Vehicle history reports compile data from various sources.
- Title history (clean, salvage, rebuilt)
- Reported accidents through insurance
- Service records from participating shops
- Odometer readings at various points
- Registration history and location
- Lien information
2What Reports Miss
Reports have significant gaps.
- Accidents paid out-of-pocket (not reported)
- Mechanical problems
- Private-party repairs
- Shops that don't report to databases
- Flood damage if not totaled
- Odometer rollback if done carefully
3How to Use Reports
A clean report is good but not sufficient. Use it as one piece of the puzzle. Always get a physical inspection—reports can't see what's actually wrong with the car today.
Pro Tip: Run reports from multiple providers. Different databases have different information.
Key Takeaways
- 1Clean report doesn't mean no problems
- 2Reports miss cash-paid repairs
- 3Use as one tool, not the only tool
- 4Physical inspection is still essential
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