How to Research Used Car History for Free

Do not allow yourself to become overwhelmed when shopping for a used vehicle. Many tools, tips and tricks remain available to determine whether a vehicle will suit your needs and not cost you more in the end. You must remain active in the research of the vehicle and not just listen to everything the seller says. After all, it's in his best interest to sell you the vehicle under any circumstance. Discover the free resources available to you during your search for a used vehicle.

Instructions

1

Visit the lot or location of the vehicle and personally inspect it. Look around the vehicle for rust, spider cracks, differences in paint color and mold or musty smells. The presence of such can reveal the vehicle was in an accident or flooding, which can lead to poor performance if you purchase it.

2

Test-drive the car if possible. Pay attention to any sounds, strange movement and the comfort and overall feel of the vehicle. After all, you must feel comfortable and safe in the vehicle if you purchase it.

3

Locate, record and search the vehicle identification number (VIN). You can find this 17-digit number either on the hood, trunk or passenger-side door on most vehicles. Using the Internet, research the car's history on websites such as Carfax. Carfax offers a free lemon check, record check, recall check and problem car check to give you with all the information to make an informed decision on a used vehicle.

4

Take note of the make, model and year of the vehicle to perform Internet and print research on the vehicle. Websites such as Edmunds as well as magazines such as Auto Trader can serve as a reference for price ranges of the used vehicle. You don't want to purchase a car for more than it's worth. Check the Blue Book value of the vehicle as well.

5

Seek counsel from an accredited mechanic. Most mechanics do not mind giving advice or inspecting a vehicle before you purchase it. A mechanic can explain common problems he fixes on similar vehicles and can test and inspect for any problems on the used car you're interested in.