Purchasing a Used Car

How to Check a Used Car’s History Before Buying

Buying a used car is a smart way to save money, but only if you choose the right one. At iDeal Automotive Sales of Staten Island, we know how important it is for buyers to feel confident in their purchase. One of the best ways to avoid costly surprises is by reviewing a vehicle history report before committing to a car. This report provides key details about the car’s past ownership, accident history, service records, and more.

Here’s what to look for—and what red flags to avoid—when checking a used car’s history.

1. Get a Vehicle History Report

Before buying any used car, request a vehicle history report from services like Carfax, AutoCheck, or the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS). At iDeal Automotive Sales of Staten Island, we provide free history reports for our vehicles, so you’ll always have access to a car’s background before making a decision.

2. Check for Title Issues

A vehicle’s title can reveal serious past problems. Watch out for:

• Salvage Title – This means the car was once considered a total loss by an insurance company. Even if repaired, it may have underlying issues.
• Rebuilt Title – The car was previously totaled and then repaired. While it may be drivable, there could be long-term reliability concerns.
• Lemon Title – The car was returned to the manufacturer due to ongoing defects.
• Odometer Rollback – If the mileage appears inconsistent, it could indicate the odometer was altered to hide excessive wear.

3. Review Accident and Damage History

Not all accidents are deal-breakers, but it’s important to know the severity of any past damage. A history report will indicate if the car has had major collisions, airbag deployments, or frame damage. Additionally, be cautious of cars that show signs of flood damage, as water can cause serious electrical and mechanical problems.

4. Check Ownership and Maintenance Records

A well-maintained car is a reliable car. A history report will show how many previous owners the vehicle has had and whether routine oil changes, brake checks, and other maintenance were performed on schedule. A car with multiple owners in a short period could be a red flag.

5. Verify Recalls and Unresolved Issues

Make sure the car doesn’t have any open recalls that haven’t been fixed. You can check this through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website using the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). While some recalls are minor, unresolved safety recalls could pose a serious risk.

6. Watch for Liens and Theft Records

If a vehicle has a lien, it means the previous owner still owes money on it. If that debt isn’t cleared, you could face legal trouble even after buying the car. A history report will also reveal if the vehicle was reported stolen, helping you avoid potential legal issues.

7. Verify the VIN

Every car has a unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Make sure the VIN on the dashboard matches the one listed on the history report, title, and other locations like the door frame or engine. If they don’t match, it could indicate the car has been tampered with or involved in fraud.

Buy with Confidence at iDeal Automotive Sales of Staten Island

At iDeal Automotive Sales of Staten Island, we take the guesswork out of buying a used car. Every vehicle on our lot comes with a full vehicle history report, so you’ll know exactly what you’re getting.

Looking for a reliable used car? Visit us today to browse our inventory, schedule a test drive, and get a free history report. Our team is here to help you find the perfect car with total peace of mind!

Stop by iDeal Automotive Sales of Staten Island or contact us today!