You've seen the ads for all the new car-buying apps that came online in the last few years. The convenience that car-buying apps provide is at a breakthrough level.
It's possible to car shop from your phone, comparing mileage, makes, and models. After you make a decision, you can go to a vending machine and pick up your new car. Some companies even deliver right to your driveway!
But what about safety? You should always research the car owner registration details before you buy. This is true even if the app says they've checked everything out.
Here's a summary of why you need this information, and where to look online.
Why You Should Look Up a Car's Background
Finding background information on your car of interest is not too difficult. Most people search for four main categories of information.
1. Damage and Maintenence
This may be surprising, but it's possible for a car to have serious hidden chassis damage. Without any external signs, a simple fender bender can create a subtle misalignment. This can cause rattling and other structural issues.
Used cars may also come with hidden damage from floods. Floodwater is dangerous because it introduces germs into your car's interior. Bacteria, viruses, and corrosive chemicals can lodge in the upholstery and cushioning.
A wet car interior can cause mold, mildew, allergies, and illness. It can also lead to the deterioration of electronic systems.
When you search for car owner details by number plate, remember to do a flood check. Never assume that a car is flawless because it looks nice.
Maintenance records can tell you a lot about what a car has been through. By going over the logs it's possible to find major repairs that may point to major damage. Remember to research any repairs before you make a final decision to buy.
2. Previous Ownership
To see how many times a car changed hands, look up car ownership details from its registration. If you prefer to buy used cars with only one previous owner, use this method for verification. You can also discover a car's geographical history and if it had registrations in more than one state.
Sometimes, a car title search may reveal that a vehicle still has a lien or someone reported it as stolen. Checking for these issues can prevent you from involvements in unwanted legal situations.
Fraudsters often try to sell damaged vehicles by setting them up with a clean title. They do this by transferring them to a new state and getting new registration documents. If you search by national VIN number and find suspicious history, move on and choose a different car.
3. Prior Accidents
A car history check will reveal previous accidents, which you have a right to know about. Even if the damage isn't obvious, it could lead to problems later. The last thing you want is to buy a car with invisible damage and have to make frequent repairs.
Checking for vehicle quality issues could save you money and help you avoid falling for a bad deal. If you discover flaws you might be able to negotiate a discount. If a discount is not possible, insist on repairs before you take ownership.
4. Safety Recalls and Warranties
Last but not least, before your buy a used car you'll want to check for any outstanding safety recalls. Don't expose yourself or your family to a dangerous car.
Besides uncovering safety recalls, you may also discover an unexpired warranty. If you do, find out how many years remain before it runs out and if you can opt for an extension.
How To Look Up Car Owner Registration Details
Thanks to online databases, you can look up car owner details from license plates and VIN numbers. It's easy and not too inexpensive. Most reports cost under $50.
Note that many state governments don't allow access to ownership information. They do this to protect peoples' privacy. They do this to protect peoples' privacy.
If privacy rules are in place, you can still find out relevant details. For example, you can see the number of owners, accidents, or maintenance records.
Where Vehicle Background Information Comes From
When you do a vehicle search, where does the vehicle background information come from? You may have asked this question and wondered if the info you can find online is reliable.
National and local governments are good places to start looking for reliable information. They compile data from state DMVs and other credible sources. Here's a summary of what you can expect to find in these systems.
National Motor Vehicle Title Information System
The NMVTIS is a nationwide database. It helps consumers research used cars and is a resource that law enforcement relies on.
Dealerships, insurance companies, and buyers can also request reports to detect possible fraud. If there were any records of "salvaged" "junked" or "flooded" history, they will show up on this report.
State Records
All states have searchable databases with car registration data. Although the names of previous owners may be withheld, you can still find other significant details from a state vehicle records check.
Don't Buy a Bad Used Car - Research Before You Buy!
Searching car owner registration details is the best way to avoid buying a bad used car. This applies whether you use a car buying app or visit a dealership in person. By researching car owner details from a registration number, you'll be able to avoid many common used car traps.
When you're ready to do a state VIN search or odometer check, give our free services a try. We also do flood checks and full vehicle history reports. If you prefer, you have the option of looking up vehicle information by a license plate.
We offer several free services and our full vehicle reports are affordable. So start searching today!
