Why CARFAX is a Must When Buying a Pre-Owned Car

Why CARFAX is a Must When Buying a Pre-Owned Car

When purchasing a pre-owned vehicle, it’s important to make an informed decision to ensure you're getting the best value and peace of mind. One of the most critical tools in this process is a CARFAX Vehicle History Report. CARFAX provides a comprehensive overview of a car's history, helping buyers avoid potential risks and unforeseen issues. At Lane11 Motors, we believe in transparency, which is why we provide CARFAX reports for every vehicle in our inventory. Here's why you should always ask for a CARFAX report when buying a used car and what you should look for.

Key Factors to Check in a CARFAX Report

1. Title Status: Clean or Rebuilt?

The title status is one of the most important details on a CARFAX report.

  • Clean Title: Indicates the car has no significant damage history that would result in it being deemed a total loss by an insurance company.

  • Rebuilt or Salvage Title: A rebuilt title means the car was previously declared a total loss and has since been repaired. While these vehicles may be cheaper upfront, they often carry risks such as hidden damages or lower resale value.

Why it matters: A clean title ensures better reliability and a stronger investment.

2. Accident History

The report details any accidents the car has been involved in, including the severity and location of damage.

  • Minor Accidents: These typically involve cosmetic repairs and may not affect the car's performance.

  • Major Accidents: Structural damage can compromise the car's safety and longevity, even if repaired.

Why it matters: Knowing the accident history helps you avoid cars with potential safety or mechanical issues.

3. Recall Status

A CARFAX report will also indicate whether the vehicle has any open recalls that haven’t been addressed.

  • Open Recalls: These could involve safety issues, such as defective airbags or braking systems.

Why it matters: Unresolved recalls could pose safety risks, and resolving them may take time and effort after purchase.

4. Ownership History

CARFAX reports show how many previous owners the car has had and how long each owner kept the vehicle.

  • Fewer Owners: Typically indicates a car has been well-maintained.

  • Frequent Ownership Changes: Could suggest underlying issues with the vehicle.

Why it matters: A car with fewer owners is often better cared for, reducing the likelihood of hidden problems.

5. Service Records

Regular maintenance is key to the longevity of any car. CARFAX provides a record of service and repairs performed on the vehicle.

  • Consistent Maintenance: Indicates the car was well cared for, with routine oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections.

  • Gaps in Service History: May signal neglect or skipped maintenance.

Why it matters: A well-maintained vehicle is more reliable and less likely to require expensive repairs in the future.

6. Mileage Verification

A CARFAX report shows the car's mileage history to ensure it aligns with the odometer reading.

  • Consistent Mileage Records: Ensure the car’s odometer has not been tampered with.

  • Flagged Discrepancies: Could indicate fraud or a rollback of the odometer.

Why it matters: Accurate mileage is essential for evaluating the car's value and future maintenance needs.

7. Local vs. Out-of-Province Vehicle

A CARFAX report will tell you where the car was registered and operated.

  • Local Cars: Vehicles from British Columbia are often preferred because of familiarity with the driving conditions and regulations.

  • Out-of-Province Cars: Cars from harsher climates or provinces with more road salt may be more prone to rust or other wear and tear.

Why it matters: Local vehicles are often in better condition due to milder weather and road conditions in Metro Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.

Why Lane11 Motors Stands Out

At Lane11 Motors, we understand how critical it is for our customers to have confidence in their purchases. That’s why we provide a CARFAX report for every vehicle in our inventory. Whether you're looking for a classic car, a reliable commuter, or a limited-edition vehicle, our selection is curated to ensure quality and transparency.

We’re located in beautiful North Vancouver, BC, and proudly serve customers from Metro Vancouver, the Lower Mainland, Tri-Cities, Fraser Valley, and beyond. Our loyal clients trust us because we stand behind our cars and prioritize your satisfaction.

Shop With Confidence at Lane11 Motors

Buying a pre-owned vehicle doesn’t have to be stressful. By requesting a CARFAX report and partnering with a trusted dealership like Lane11 Motors, you can drive away with confidence. Visit us today to explore our incredible selection of pre-owned cars in mint condition.

Discover the Lane11 Motors difference!