NationalMotorSales VIN Check Review
Get a VIN (vehicle identification number) check prior to any purchase – regardless if the vehicle is new or used. Basing your buying decision on the appearance alone or on the information provided by the seller simply is not the approach to take and could lead to disaster.
A cosmetic inspection does not address potential underlying problems. Engine and transmission issues in particular could be undiscovered – or even well hidden – by the seller at the time of purchase and only later will these issues rear their ugly heads. Remember, once you purchase a vehicle you assume all liability unless otherwise expressed in the bill of sale. Most Private Party purchases are sold ‘As Is’ which means you have little or no recourse if there is a problem.
NationalMotorSales suggests the following approach. Talk to the owner. Find out how long they’ve had the vehicle for and if they’re the original owner. Try to get copies of invoices when it was taken in for service or repairs. The inability to provide paperwork is a tell tale sign of how the seller may have treated the vehicle. You do not want to purchase a vehicle that was neglected. It will only cost you money.
Once you have all the paperwork sort them by date and look to see if it’s been serviced regularly. Review any and all repair invoices. Were replacement parts used or refurbished? Make sure that you are looking at credible documentation. Dealer name or shop name should be on the invoice without exception. Do not take the work of a mechanic that is also a friend of, or related to, the seller.
Once you’ve gotten all of the invoices take the vehicle out for a test drive. Drive the vehicle for at least twenty minutes. Keep the windows up with the radio and A/C off for the first few minutes. Listen for rattles as this indicate potential problems including loose or broken interior parts that may have been jerry rigged. Then turn on the A/C. You’ll notice immediately if it’s working properly as well as if it’s taking a drag on the engine’s performance. After you’ve gauged the working condition of the A/C turn it off and roll the windows down. You want to do this last because you will have had a chance to settle in the vehicle and understand how it drives. With the windows down you’ll be able to listen to the engine, brakes and other crucial elements. The sounds the car makes will tell you everything you need to know. Refrain from asking questions during the test drive as the dialogue will distract you from your review of the vehicle. Take mental notes and cover every issue thoroughly. ‘I don’t know’ is not an acceptable answer and press the seller to get accurate information.
If you’re comfortable with the vehicle, get the VIN number from the tile, registration or insurance paperwork. Verify the VIN number by checking the manufacturer plate located on the inside of the driver door. You can check the VIN by visiting NationalMotorSales or by simply clicking here. This report is crucial and will help you verify all the information you’ve collected. In addition you’ll receive important, decision making information that you could not have gotten on your own. Your VIN Check review will include the following: has the vehicle had a salvage title, fire, water or frame damage, been labeled a ‘lemon’, if the odometer has been cracked or rolled back, if it’s been in any accidents, stolen or vandalized.
Once you have the report in hand you can make your final decision with real ease. Buyers save too much money buying used vehicles, but you need to purchase wisely and do your homework first.
Visit the NationalMotorSales.com blog for regular updates.
