📋 Overview
No single report shows everything. Carfax misses about 20% of accidents. NMVTIS (the federal National Motor Vehicle Title Information System) catches title fraud Carfax can't. Combine 3–4 sources for full coverage before you buy.
📝 Step-by-Step Checklist
- Get the VIN firstPull it from the dash AND the door jamb. They must match. See /how-to-decode-a-vin.
- Run the free NHTSA recall checkGo to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter the VIN. Shows open federal safety recalls. Free and authoritative.
- Run an NMVTIS report ($3–$13)Federal database. Go to vehiclehistory.bja.ojp.gov/nmvtis_vehiclehistory and pick an approved provider. Shows salvage, flood, junk, and odometer brands across all 50 states.
- Run a Carfax or AutoCheck report ($40–$45)Shows accident history, service records, registration history, and reported odometer readings. Carfax is stronger for service history; AutoCheck is stronger for auction data.
- Check the title with the state DMVMany states offer a free title-status lookup by VIN. This is the only way to verify the current title brand in real time.
- Cross-check the odometerCompare the dash reading to Carfax mileage entries, oil change stickers, and service records. A jump backward is fraud. See /how-to-spot-rolled-back-odometer.
- Search for theftCheck NICB's free VINCheck at nicb.org/vincheck. Shows reported thefts and total losses from member insurance companies.
- Verify warranty statusCall the manufacturer with the VIN. Powertrain warranties often transfer with sale and can save you thousands.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Carfax 100% accurate?
No. Carfax only shows reported events. Roughly 20% of accidents are not reported to a Carfax data source. Combine with NMVTIS and a mechanic's inspection.
Is NMVTIS the same as Carfax?
No. NMVTIS is the federal title database, run by the U.S. Department of Justice. It catches title fraud Carfax misses but does not show all accidents.
Can I get a free vehicle history report?
NHTSA recall checks and NICB VINCheck are free. NMVTIS reports are $3–$13. Carfax/AutoCheck are $40+. Some dealers provide Carfax free on cars they sell.
Does a clean Carfax mean no accidents?
No. It means no accidents were reported to Carfax's data sources. A mechanic's inspection of frame and paint is still essential.
What is a salvage title?
A title brand applied when an insurance company totals the car. Salvage cars are worth 20–40% less and may be uninsurable. Lenders will not finance them.
How long does a Carfax report stay valid?
The data is updated continuously, so a report from yesterday is current today. New events appear within days of being reported.