When it comes to used cars, the obvious flaws might only scratch the surface. But don’t worry, there are simple and affordable ways to dig deeper and reveal hidden issues that could boost your damages claim and increase your chances of winning a case! Here are four quick shortcuts you can try:
VIN Recall Check: Enter the vehicle’s VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for a free and instant check on any unrepaired safety recalls. It’s easy, fast, and could reveal serious safety risks.
Google the VIN: A quick Google search of the VIN could pull up all kinds of surprises about the car’s history. You never know what’s out there!
Total Loss Check: Visit vehiclehistory.gov to see if the car was ever reported as a total loss, salvage, or junk. For as little as $3.50, this federal database, sourced directly from insurance companies, could expose wrecked cars.
Commercial Databases: Services like Carfax and AutoCheck offer more detailed reports, buying data about past damage and other issues. Though pricier, these databases sometimes offer unlimited searches for a fixed time period, like a month.
For extra peace of mind, consider an independent inspection from a trusted mechanic who knows both body and mechanical issues. For around $50 to $150, it’s an investment worth making before diving deeper into legal action.
Uncovering these hidden defects can be the game-changer you need!
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