What Exactly is a Vehicle History Report?
A vehicle history report (VHR) is a detailed document that provides information about a vehicle's past. Think of it as the car's biography; it tells the important events in the life of that vehicle.
A vehicle history report is built from reliable sources such as government vehicle registration records, insurance claim databases, and auction houses. When you run a VIN checkup, the lookup service pulls data from these sources to help you verify the vehicle’s details.
If you want to get a detailed report, you can make use of popular platforms like Tokunbo.io. All you have to do is input your VIN, and you’ll see the car’s history before committing your money.
What Information Does a Vehicle History Report Show?
A good report goes beyond just showing you the car details. It also helps you decide if the car is really worth your money. Here’s what a history report reveals:
Basic Car Details (Make, Model, Year, VIN)
A vehicle history report first confirms the car’s true identity using the VIN(vehicle identification number). Think of this number as the car’s fingerprint, unique to that vehicle.
It shows you details like the make, model, year, engine size, and other specifications. This is to help you confirm that everything matches what the seller is telling you.
Repair History
This section shows whether the car has been in accidents, undergone major repairs, or suffered flood damage that could affect its safety and value.
So, let's say a seller claims that a car is ‘accident-free’ when its engine has been rebuilt after a major crash, the report will reveal it. This information helps you to know if you should be expecting problems after your purchase.
Auction or Import Records (for tokunbo)
For imported cars, the report shows what happened to the car before it reached Nigeria. Was it sold at an auction abroad? Was it marked as damaged or a total loss? This helps you to know if that clean-looking tokunbo was actually a flood-damaged car or had accident damage abroad.
Outstanding Loans or Liens
Sometimes, used cars are used as collateral for loans. A report will show if the car still has unpaid debts tied to it or any legal claims, so you don’t end up buying a car that the bank could later seize.
Registration History
The registration history shows the car’s ownership trail, how many people have used it, where it was registered, and for how long. If a car has had up to five different owners in only two years, that’s a red flag worth looking into.
How to Obtain a Vehicle History Report
Getting a VHR is quite easy. All you have to do is follow these steps:
Run a VIN Check: Locate the car’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). These digits are usually found on the dashboard or door frame. Then enter it into a trusted service like Tokunbo.io. In minutes, you’ll get a full report on ownership, mileage, and accident history.
Ask the Dealership: Some dealerships provide a history report for cars they’re selling, but it’s always smart to run your own check for peace of mind.
Tips for Buyers: Beyond Reviewing the Report
A vehicle history report is powerful, but it’s not the only step. You'll have to combine it with these checks for full peace of mind:
Conduct a Pre-purchase Inspection: Even the most detailed report can't tell you if the engine makes strange noises or if the air conditioning works properly. Hire a trusted mechanic to physically inspect the car. This inspection, combined with the history report, gives you the complete picture.
Research the Vehicle Model: Some car models are known for common issues, such as a transmission that often fails after 100,000 kilometers or an AC compressor that keeps breaking down. Do a little research on the make and model you’re interested in so you know what to expect and budget for.
Take a Test Drive: Never buy a car without driving it yourself. A test drive can reveal problems that neither the report nor a static inspection might catch. Pay attention to how the car starts, steers, brakes, and shifts gears.
Where to Get Vehicle History Reports
The safest way to get a vehicle history report is by using a reliable online service. Tokunbo.io is one of the trusted platforms in Nigeria where you can easily verify vehicle details.
We understand the unique challenges of buying cars locally and provide reports that can save you from costly mistakes. The process is simple: just enter the car's VIN and you'll get a detailed report about its history.
Remember, buying a used car is a major investment. That’s why spending a small amount on a vehicle history report can protect you from losing thousands later. Don’t let the excitement of a ‘good deal’ cloud your judgment; always verify the car’s history before making a purchase.