CheckThatVin vs EpicVIN (2025): Which Vehicle History Report Should You Choose?

When comparing CheckThatVin vs EpicVIN, both services offer vehicle history reports by pulling data from sources like the NMVTIS. EpicVIN often provides slightly more detailed reports and flexible pricing, while CheckThatVin is known for its straightforward, single-report focus. The best choice depends on your specific needs, but both serve as alternatives to more expensive options.

Buying a used car is a huge financial decision. You've found a car that looks perfect online, the price is right, and you're ready to make a deal. But what's hiding beneath that shiny paint? A clean title doesn't always mean a clean history. That's where a vehicle history report (VHR) comes in, and two popular names you'll encounter are CheckThatVin and EpicVIN. But which one gives you the best bang for your buck?

In this head-to-head comparison, we'll break down everything you need to know about CheckThatVin vs EpicVIN to help you make an informed decision in 2025.

Photo by Shooting Tyre on Unsplash

What is a Vehicle History Report and Why Do You Need One?

Before we dive into the specifics, let's cover the basics. A vehicle history report is a detailed summary of a car's past, compiled using its unique 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). A comprehensive report can save you from buying a car with costly hidden problems.

According to industry data, over 1.5 million vehicles on the road have a branded title (like salvage or flood), and thousands more have unreported damage. A VIN check is your first line of defense against these risks.

A good report will typically include:

Title History (including salvage, junk, or flood brands)
Accident and Damage Reports
Odometer Readings and Rollback Alerts
Previous Owners and Service History
Open Recalls from NHTSA
Lien and Repossession Records

CheckThatVin: The Straightforward Contender

CheckThatVin positions itself as a simple, no-frills provider of vehicle history reports. Their primary data source is the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS), a reliable database managed by the U.S. Department of Justice. This makes them an approved data provider, lending credibility to their reports.

Key Features of CheckThatVin:

NMVTIS-Approved: Their reports are based on a trusted federal database.
Core Data Points: You'll get essential information like title history, branding, odometer readings, and salvage records.
Simple Pricing: They typically focus on single-report purchases, making it easy for one-time buyers.

EpicVIN: The Feature-Rich Challenger

EpicVIN is another NMVTIS-approved data provider that has gained significant popularity. They often go a step further by supplementing NMVTIS data with information from other commercial sources, including insurance companies, auction houses, and repair shops. This can sometimes result in a more detailed picture of the vehicle's past.

Key Features of EpicVIN:

Comprehensive Data: Combines NMVTIS data with other proprietary sources for a fuller report.
Additional Information: Often includes photos of the vehicle from previous sale listings, which can be incredibly useful.
Flexible Pricing: Tends to offer both single reports and multi-report packages, catering to buyers looking at several cars.

Head-to-Head Comparison: CheckThatVin vs EpicVIN

So, how do they stack up when you put them side-by-side? Let's break it down by the factors that matter most to car buyers.

1. Data Sources and Accuracy

Both services are built on the foundation of NMVTIS data, which is a huge plus. This means you can trust the core information regarding title brands and odometer history. However, EpicVIN's inclusion of data from other commercial sources can sometimes uncover accident information or service records that might not be in the federal database. For this reason, EpicVIN often has a slight edge in the sheer volume of data presented.

But remember, no report is 100% foolproof. A minor accident that was never reported to an insurance company might not show up on any report. That's why a VIN check should always be paired with a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a trusted mechanic.

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2. Report Content and Readability

Both providers deliver reports that are generally easy to read. They use clear headings and icons to highlight potential issues like "Salvage Title" or "Odometer Discrepancy."

CheckThatVin reports are very direct and to the point, focusing on the critical NMVTIS data. EpicVIN reports can feel more robust, sometimes including historical photos, sales listings, and detailed specifications that can help you verify the car's trim level and features.

A person standing next to a used car looking at a vehicle history report on their smartphone with a concerned expression

Photo by Shooting Tyre on Unsplash

3. Pricing and Overall Value

Pricing is where these services really compete. Both are significantly cheaper than industry giants like CarFax. As of early 2025, you can expect to pay:

CheckThatVin: Often priced competitively for a single report, making it a good choice if you've already narrowed your search to one vehicle.
EpicVIN: Offers competitive single-report pricing but often provides better value through multi-report bundles (e.g., 3 or 10 reports). This is ideal if you're cross-shopping multiple cars.

When considering value, it's not just about the price. It's about the cost of missing a critical piece of information. A slightly more expensive report that uncovers a hidden flood damage title could save you thousands of dollars and a major headache. This is why comparing the depth of information is just as important as the price tag.

The Verdict: Which VIN Check Service is Better?

So, who wins the CheckThatVin vs EpicVIN showdown? The answer is: it depends on your needs.

Choose CheckThatVin if you are focused on one specific car and want a fast, affordable, and reliable report based on core NMVTIS data.
Choose EpicVIN if you are comparing multiple vehicles and want the potential for more detailed information, including historical photos and data from a wider range of sources.

Both are excellent alternatives to more expensive services and provide the essential information you need to avoid major pitfalls. They empower you to negotiate better, understand the vehicle's true market value, and walk away from a bad deal.

The Best Alternative: Why Carvia is a Smarter Choice

While CheckThatVin and EpicVIN are solid options, the landscape is always evolving. As a modern car buyer, you need more than just raw data—you need clarity. That's where Carvia stands out.

Carvia offers comprehensive vehicle history reports for just $9.99. We pull data from NMVTIS and other trusted sources, but we add a crucial layer: AI-powered explanations. Our system analyzes the report and provides simple, easy-to-understand summaries of what each data point means for you as a buyer. No more guessing what "Title Brand: Rebuilt" really implies for the car's safety and resale value.

For an unbeatable price, you get the data you need and the clarity you deserve. It's the smartest way to check a VIN in 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is CheckThatVin a legitimate service?

Yes, CheckThatVin is a legitimate and approved NMVTIS data provider. This means their reports are based on a reliable, federally regulated database, making them a trustworthy source for checking a vehicle's title history.

Is EpicVIN as good as CarFax?

EpicVIN is a strong, affordable alternative to CarFax. While CarFax has the largest proprietary database of service records, EpicVIN provides all the critical information from NMVTIS and other sources at a fraction of the cost, making it a better value for many consumers.

Can a VIN check tell me if a car has been in an accident?

Yes, a VIN check can often reveal accident history, especially if an insurance claim was filed or if the vehicle was issued a salvage title as a result of the damage. However, minor accidents that were paid for out-of-pocket may not appear, which is why a physical inspection is also crucial.

What is the most important thing to look for in a vehicle history report?

The most critical items are title brands. Look for any history of "Salvage," "Rebuilt," "Flood," or "Junk" titles. These indicate severe past damage that can affect the vehicle's safety, reliability, and value. Odometer discrepancies are another major red flag.