The used-car buyer's guide
Practical articles on checking car history by VIN: mileage, damage, leasing, imports and how to buy safely.
FeaturedMileage rollback: how to spot it before you buy
Worn steering wheel, fresh tires, missing service stamps: learn to catch odometer fraud before you pay.
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BasicsWhat the VIN is and where to find it
The VIN is your car's unique fingerprint: learn what the 17 characters mean and where to find it.
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GuideHidden damage: why the accident history matters
A car that looks flawless can hide a damaged frame — here's how to learn the truth from the VIN before you pay.
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GuideComplete checklist: what to verify before buying a used car
A practical step-by-step guide: the papers, VIN, mileage, damage and liens to check before you pay.
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WarningCar with leasing, lien or unpaid loan: how to check
A car with active leasing, a lien or unpaid debt can be repossessed — here's how to check before you pay.
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GuideImporting a car from Germany or France: what to watch for
Importing a car from Germany or France: how to avoid clocked odometers, hidden damage and surprise registration costs.
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GuideService history: why it matters more than you think
A stamped service book can lie. A VIN check reveals the truth about maintenance and mileage.
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BasicsHow to read a car history report: a section-by-section guide
Learn to read a vehicle history report section by section and spot the red flags before you buy.
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