Before now, many individuals in Africa purchased used imported vehicles with little or no knowledge of the vehicle’s past, but in recent years, it has become possible to learn more about a vehicle’s past using its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
This post explains how to check a car’s VIN Number to find more vital information that a mechanical or physical inspection will otherwise fail to show. The methods exposed in this article have helped many persons involved in a used car transaction make sound decisions. Unlike the NHTSA in North America, most African governments do not have the facilities or database for VIN checks.
The VIN, which is usually referred to as the chassis number in West Africa, is a 17-digit alphanumeric code assigned by the manufacturer to every vehicle. It is unique and standardized for every vehicle. Vehicle Checks, a company headquartered in Australia with branches in West Africa, has recently developed a cutting-edge tool to help check a car’s VIN number.
The following steps are what is needed to check for and get a vehicle history report for any used vehicle imported into Africa.
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How to Check Car VIN Number
To check the VIN number, you may utilize the following steps:
Step 1. Visit the Chasiss number check tool or download the mobile application.
Step 2 Imput the VIN or the chassis number and other information.
Step 3 Click on the “Get your Vehicle History Report”
Step 4 Complete the check and obtain your vehicle history report
Analyze the report. Also, you have nothing to worry about if you find it difficult to understand the various sections of a vehicle history report. Below is the information summarized to help you understand it.
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Features of a Vehicle History Report
A vehicle history report is a comprehensive document that provides critical information about a vehicle’s past. It serves as a valuable tool for anyone considering buying a used car, offering insights into the vehicle’s condition, history, and potential issues. This report can help buyers make informed decisions and avoid purchasing cars with hidden problems. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key features typically found in a vehicle history report; we will use a Toyota Tacoma as a case study while outlining the most predominant sections of the vehicle history report.
Vehicle Summary
The 2011 Toyota Tacoma, with VIN 3TMLU4EN4BM070890, comes with a 4.0L V6 DOHC 24V engine and runs on gasoline. This model features a 6-speed manual transmission and 4WD, making it suitable for various driving conditions. It has four doors and an MSRP of $26,145. The body type is a crew cab pickup 4-DR, manufactured in Mexico, and it has standard seating for five passengers. According to the report, the vehicle has a branded title, indicating a history of significant damage. Despite this, there are no discrepancies in the odometer readings, which is a positive sign. The vehicle has been involved in two accidents and has one record of damage. There are four specific events reported, ten service and repair records, and one auction record. The vehicle has three lien or loan records, but no records of theft or open recalls. This summary highlights both the positive aspects and potential concerns regarding this vehicle’s history.
Vehicle Usage Record
The vehicle usage record indicates that the 2011 Toyota Tacoma has been used primarily for personal purposes. Understanding that the vehicle has been used as a personal vehicle suggests it may have been subjected to regular, everyday driving conditions. This can be beneficial compared to commercial use, which often involves heavier wear and tear. Knowing the type of usage helps in predicting the vehicle’s condition and potential future performance, aiding in making an informed decision about its purchase.
Ownership History
The ownership history of the 2011 Toyota Tacoma shows that it has had two previous owners. The first owner purchased the vehicle in 2011 and was located in New Hampshire. This owner held the vehicle from April 2011 until July 2016, totaling five years and three months of ownership. The second owner acquired the vehicle in 2016, and it has been registered in Maine since then. This second period of ownership has lasted for six years and eleven months. This history of relatively long-term ownership by both parties can be a positive indicator, suggesting that the vehicle may have been well-maintained and reliable enough to be kept for extended periods.
Title Brand Check
One of the critical aspects of the vehicle history report is the title brand check, which has revealed that the 2011 Toyota Tacoma has a salvage brand record. This indicates that at some point, the vehicle sustained significant damage that resulted in it being deemed a total loss by an insurance company. Vehicles with salvage titles often have diminished value and can pose safety risks, making it essential to consider this factor carefully. Potential buyers should investigate the extent of the damage and any repairs made to ensure the vehicle is safe and reliable for future use.
Event Verification
The event verification section documents four significant events in the vehicle’s history. First, the vehicle has an insurance loss record, indicating it was involved in an incident that led to an insurance claim. Second, the vehicle has been titled to an insurance company, likely following the event that resulted in the salvage title. Third, there is a loan/lien record, which means there are financial obligations associated with the vehicle. Finally, there is a corrected title record, which might indicate administrative updates or corrections in the vehicle’s documentation. Understanding these events helps provide a comprehensive picture of the vehicle’s past and any potential issues that may arise.
Mileage Records
The mileage records for the 2011 Toyota Tacoma are crucial for assessing its overall condition and potential lifespan. The report provides nine recorded mileage points, starting from 11 miles on April 26, 2011, up to a concerning 999,999 miles on September 8, 2022, which likely indicates an error. The estimated current mileage is around 199,243 miles. Regular mileage recording shows a history of consistent use, but the anomaly at the end suggests a need for careful verification. Accurate mileage is essential for determining the vehicle’s wear and tear and planning for future maintenance needs.
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Accident Records
The accident history of the vehicle includes two recorded incidents. The first accident occurred on April 17, 2018, involving a rear impact collision in Maine. The second accident was reported on March 3, 2022, involving a front impact collision, which led to multiple airbags deploying and the vehicle being reported as a total loss. These accidents, especially the latter, significantly impact the vehicle’s structural integrity and safety. It’s crucial for potential buyers to thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any hidden damage that might not be immediately visible but could affect its performance and safety.
Damage Verification
The damage verification section notes one major damage incident. This record highlights the importance of understanding the extent of the damage and the repairs conducted. Major damage incidents can affect the vehicle’s value, performance, and safety. Prospective buyers should seek detailed repair records and consider having the vehicle inspected by a professional to ensure all necessary repairs were properly executed and that the vehicle is now in a safe and reliable condition.
Please note that the remaining sections can be seen in the Detailed Vehicle History section.
Service & Repair
According to records of service and repair, one could observe that the estimates of the 2011 model of Toyota Tacoma reveal ten service and repair incidences. Timely service in a car is regarded as a good sign because it means that the vehicle has been well maintained and all the problems that are likely to arise are attended to as soon as possible. Cars undergoing regular servicing are more reliable and when it is time to sell you get more money. Such records work well in teaching the general health status of the vehicle, thus can be used to forecast the reliability and the frequent necessity for maintenance.
Theft Records
There are no theft records found for the 2011 Toyota Tacoma. This is reassuring for potential buyers, as purchasing a vehicle with a theft history can lead to complications and legal issues. Knowing that the vehicle has a clean theft record adds to the peace of mind regarding its legitimacy and ownership.
Loans/Lien Records
The vehicle has three lien records, indicating that there are financial obligations tied to it. These records show that someone else has a right of possession on the vehicle, typically due to a loan taken out by the owner. Potential buyers need to ensure that any liens are released by the lienholder before purchasing the vehicle to avoid legal and financial complications. Ensuring the vehicle is free and clear of any financial encumbrances is crucial for a smooth transaction and ownership experience.
Conclusively, by carefully examining each section of this vehicle history report, you can gain valuable insights into any vehicle’’s past and make informed decisions about whether it is a sound investment or not.
