Why a Missouri VIN Check Matters

Purchasing a used vehicle without proper due diligence can be a risky endeavor. A vehicle history report, obtained through a VIN check, provides vital information about a car's past, helping you make an informed decision and avoid costly mistakes. In Missouri, like elsewhere, undisclosed accidents, title issues, and odometer fraud are potential risks.

A VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique 17-character code assigned to every vehicle. This number acts as the car's fingerprint, allowing you to trace its history. A comprehensive Missouri vehicle history report can reveal:

• Accident history (severity and location)
• Title issues (salvage, flood, rebuilt)
• Odometer readings (detecting potential rollback)
• Lien information (outstanding loans)
• Number of previous owners
• Service and repair history

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), unreported accidents and title fraud are significant problems in the used car market. A VIN check is your first line of defense.

How to Perform a Missouri VIN Lookup

There are several ways to conduct a VIN lookup in Missouri:

1. Check the Vehicle: The VIN is typically located on the driver's side dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the driver's side doorjamb, and on the vehicle's title and registration documents.
2. Online Vehicle History Report Providers: Services like Carvia provide comprehensive vehicle history reports based on the VIN. These reports consolidate data from various sources, including state DMVs, insurance companies, and repair shops.
3. Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR): While the Missouri DOR doesn't offer a direct public VIN lookup tool for detailed vehicle history, they may be able to provide limited information, particularly regarding title and registration status. Contact your local Missouri Department of Revenue office for details.

It's important to note that free VIN checks often provide limited information. Paid services offer more comprehensive data and are generally worth the investment.

Understanding a Missouri Vehicle History Report

A vehicle history report can seem overwhelming at first, but understanding the key sections is crucial.

Key Sections of a Vehicle History Report:

• Title History: This section reveals any title issues, such as salvage, flood, rebuilt, or odometer discrepancies. A "branded" title indicates that the vehicle has sustained significant damage or has been declared a total loss.
• Accident History: Details any reported accidents, including the date, location, and severity of the damage. Note that not all accidents are reported, so this section might not be exhaustive.
• Odometer Readings: Tracks the vehicle's mileage over time. Significant discrepancies between readings can indicate odometer fraud.
• Ownership History: Shows the number of previous owners and the states where the vehicle was registered. Frequent changes in ownership could be a red flag.
• Service and Repair History: Provides a record of maintenance and repairs performed on the vehicle. This can give you insights into how well the vehicle has been maintained.

When evaluating a vehicle history report, pay close attention to any red flags, such as branded titles, significant accident damage, or odometer discrepancies. Consult with a qualified mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection to further assess the vehicle's condition.

Approximately 4% of vehicles in the US have had their odometers rolled back, resulting in billions of dollars in losses for consumers each year.

Tips for Buying a Used Car in Missouri

Here are some essential tips to keep in mind when buying a used car in Missouri:

• Always conduct a VIN check: This is the most crucial step in protecting yourself from fraud and hidden problems.
• Get a pre-purchase inspection: Have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle before you buy it.
• Negotiate the price: Research the vehicle's market value using resources like Kelley Blue Book (KBB) and be prepared to negotiate.
• Review the title carefully: Ensure that the title is clean and free of any liens.
• Take a test drive: Pay attention to how the vehicle handles and listen for any unusual noises.
• Consider Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles: CPO vehicles have been inspected and certified by the manufacturer, offering added peace of mind.
• Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true: If a price seems significantly lower than market value, it could be a sign of a problem.

Missouri DMV VIN Lookup Alternatives

While the Missouri Department of Revenue doesn't offer a comprehensive online VIN lookup, you can explore alternative options. As mentioned earlier, a Carvia vehicle history report is often the most efficient and detailed method. However, checking with local law enforcement may provide limited information about stolen vehicles. Remember that third-party VIN check services are the primary way to access in-depth vehicle history details.