Car Tips

Difference between AutoCheck report and Carfax. Get facts and decide which vehicle history report is better for your needs. Compare price, accuracy, coverage

As a car buyer, one of the most important things you need to consider is the vehicle’s history. You want to know if it has been involved in any accidents, how many previous owners it has had, and whether it has a clean title. To obtain this information, you need to access a vehicle history report.

Two of the most popular vehicle history report providers are AutoCheck and Carfax. While both services provide similar reports, they differ in certain aspects. In this article, we will compare AutoCheck vs Carfax and determine which one is the best option for you.

What is AutoCheck?

AutoCheck is a vehicle history report provider that is owned by Experian. It was established in 1996 and offers reports that include information on accidents, title history, mileage, and more. AutoCheck’s database contains over 21 billion records and covers all 50 states.

What is Carfax?

Carfax is another well-known vehicle history report provider that was founded in 1984. It provides reports that include information on accidents, ownership history, title information, and more. Carfax has a database of over 22 billion records and covers all 50 states as well as Canada.

Price Comparison

One of the most significant differences between AutoCheck and Carfax is the pricing. AutoCheck offers a single report for $24.99, while Carfax charges $39.99 for a single report. However, Carfax offers a package deal of five reports for $99.99, which brings the per-report cost down to $19.99. AutoCheck does not offer any package deals.

Information Coverage

When it comes to the amount of information provided in the reports, both AutoCheck and Carfax offer similar coverage. Both services provide information on accidents, title history, mileage, and more. However, AutoCheck has a feature called the AutoCheck Score, which rates a vehicle’s overall history on a scale of 1 to 1000. This score takes into account factors such as accidents, ownership history, and more. Carfax does not offer a similar rating system.

Accuracy

The accuracy of the information provided in the reports is another important factor to consider. Both AutoCheck and Carfax obtain their data from various sources, including state DMVs, insurance companies, and dealerships. However, AutoCheck has a partnership with the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS), which is a federal database that provides information on a vehicle’s title, odometer reading, and more. Carfax does not have a similar partnership.

Customer Support

When it comes to customer support, both AutoCheck and Carfax offer similar services. Both have customer support teams that can be contacted via phone or email. However, Carfax also offers a live chat feature on their website, which can be more convenient for customers who prefer online communication.

AutoCheck vs Carfax, which one is the best?

AutoCheck vs Carfax, which one is the best

After comparing AutoCheck vs Carfax, it is difficult to determine which one is the best option. Both services provide similar reports with similar information coverage. However, AutoCheck has a slightly lower price point and offers the AutoCheck Score feature, which can be helpful in determining a vehicle’s overall history.

On the other hand, Carfax has a larger database and covers Canada as well as the United States. Additionally, Carfax offers a package deal for multiple reports, which can be more cost-effective for car buyers who plan to purchase multiple vehicles.

Ultimately, the choice between AutoCheck and Carfax comes down to personal preference. If you are looking for a slightly more affordable option with a helpful rating system, AutoCheck may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a larger database and plan to purchase multiple reports, Carfax may be the better choice for you. It is important to consider your individual needs as a car buyer and weigh the pros and cons of each service before making a decision.

In addition to considering the differences between AutoCheck and Carfax, it is important to note that no vehicle history report provider can guarantee complete accuracy. While these services do their best to compile accurate information from various sources, there is always a chance that certain information may be missing or incorrect. Therefore, it is important to use these reports as a tool to supplement your own research and inspection of the vehicle.

Another important aspect to consider when purchasing a vehicle is the condition of the car itself. It is recommended to have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle before making a purchase. This can help identify any potential issues that may not be apparent from the vehicle history report alone.

In conclusion, both AutoCheck and Carfax offer reliable vehicle history reports that can be helpful in making an informed decision when purchasing a car. While they have some differences in terms of pricing, information coverage, and accuracy, ultimately the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and individual needs. Remember to use these reports as a tool to supplement your own research and inspection of the vehicle, and to have a trusted mechanic inspect the car before making a purchase.

Comparison table Autocheck vs Carfax 2023

In summary, Carfax remains the industry leader with larger vehicle history database, coverage in US and Canada, and more service offerings like recall checks and maintenance reminders. Autocheck offers a lower cost alternative but users cite concerns about accuracy compared to Carfax.

FAQ

Get the facts on AUTOCHECK Vehicle History Reports. Discover why they’re important and how to get one for your vehicle. Get the information you need here

When it comes to buying a used car, the AUTOCHECK report can be a valuable tool for assessing the vehicle’s history and ensuring you are making an informed purchase decision. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the details of the AUTOCHECK report, what it includes, and how it can help you avoid costly mistakes.

What is an AUTOCHECK Report?

An AUTOCHECK report is a vehicle history report that provides information about a specific car’s background, including accident history, ownership history, and title information. The report is generated using the car’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), which is a unique code that identifies the vehicle. The VIN can be found on the car’s dashboard or driver’s side door jamb.

The AUTOCHECK report is compiled from various sources, including state DMV records, insurance companies, and auto auctions. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the car’s history, giving buyers the information they need to make an informed purchasing decision.

What Information Does an AUTOCHECK Report Include?

An AUTOCHECK report includes a variety of information about a vehicle’s history, including:

1. Accidents: The report provides information about any accidents the car has been involved in, including the severity of the accident, the location, and the date. This information can help you assess the car’s safety and potential for future repairs.
2. Title Information: The report includes information about the car’s title, including whether the title is clean or salvage. A clean title means the car has never been declared a total loss by an insurance company. A salvage title means the car has been declared a total loss by an insurance company and repaired. Salvage titles can indicate that the car has been in a serious accident and may have hidden damage.
3. Ownership History: The report provides information about the car’s ownership history, including the number of owners, how long each owner had the car, and whether the car was used as a rental or lease vehicle.
4. Odometer Readings: The report includes information about the car’s odometer readings, including any discrepancies or inconsistencies. Odometer fraud is a common problem in the used car market, and the AUTOCHECK report can help you avoid purchasing a car with a tampered odometer.
5. Vehicle Use: The report includes information about how the car was used, including whether it was used for personal or commercial purposes.
6. Service and Maintenance Records: The report includes information about the car’s service and maintenance records, including any repairs or maintenance performed on the car. This information can help you assess the car’s condition and potential for future repairs.

Why is an AUTOCHECK Report Important?

An AUTOCHECK report is an important tool for assessing the history of a used car and ensuring you are making an informed purchase decision. By providing a comprehensive overview of the car’s history, the report can help you avoid purchasing a car with hidden damage, odometer fraud, or other potential issues.

When buying a used car, it’s important to do your due diligence and research the car’s history. An AUTOCHECK report can help you do just that, providing valuable information that can help you make an informed purchasing decision.

How to Get an AUTOCHECK Report?

To get an AUTOCHECK report, you will need to obtain the car’s VIN and enter it into the AUTOCHECK website. The report can be purchased online for a fee, which varies depending on the report’s depth and scope.

Alternatively, some car dealerships may provide an AUTOCHECK report for free as part of their sales process. Be sure to ask the dealership if they can provide an AUTOCHECK report before making a purchase.

In conclusion, an AUTOCHECK report is a valuable tool for anyone considering buying a used car. By providing a comprehensive overview of the car’s history, the report can help buyers make informed decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure they are getting the best possible value for their money.

When purchasing a used car, it’s important to do your research and gather as much information as possible about the vehicle’s history. The AUTOCHECK report is an important resource for this research, providing detailed information about the car’s accident history, ownership history, title information, odometer readings, and service and maintenance records.

Obtaining an AUTOCHECK report is easy, with reports available for purchase online or provided by some car dealerships for free. With the information provided in an AUTOCHECK report, buyers can make informed decisions about whether to proceed with a purchase, negotiate a fair price, or walk away from a potentially problematic car.

In summary, an AUTOCHECK report is an invaluable resource for anyone considering buying a used car. By providing a comprehensive overview of the vehicle’s history, the report can help buyers make informed decisions and ensure they are getting the best possible value for their money. So, if you’re in the market for a used car, be sure to obtain an AUTOCHECK report and use the information provided to make an informed purchasing decision.

Find out what’s in a CARFAX Report and how it can help you make an informed decision when buying a used vehicle. Get the facts and make the smart choice

Used car managers can be a sleazy bunch, trust me I used to be one! When you meet one of these managers on a used car lot beware. They have an arsenal of selling tools that you don’t even know exist. There are however, easy to remember tips that you can use to protect yourself while shopping for a used car. Today we’re discussing the CARFAX report.

When it comes to buying a used car, one of the most important things you need to do is to get a CARFAX report. CARFAX is a well-known vehicle history report provider that helps you make an informed decision before buying a used car. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about CARFAX reports and how to use them to your advantage.

What is a CARFAX report?

A CARFAX report is a detailed summary of a vehicle’s history that includes information about the car’s previous owners, accident history, service records, title information, and more. The report is compiled using data from various sources, including state DMVs, insurance companies, and repair shops. By reviewing a CARFAX report, you can get a better understanding of a car’s condition and make a more informed decision before buying.

Why should you get a CARFAX report?

Getting a CARFAX report is important because it can help you avoid buying a car with hidden problems. A CARFAX report can reveal whether a car has been in an accident, has a salvage title, or has had major repairs. By reviewing the report, you can also get an idea of how well the car has been maintained and whether it has a clean title. In short, a CARFAX report gives you a complete picture of a car’s history, allowing you to make a more informed decision before buying.

How to get a CARFAX report?

Getting a CARFAX report is easy. You can visit the CARFAX website and enter the vehicle’s VIN (vehicle identification number). The VIN is a unique 17-digit code that identifies a specific vehicle. Once you enter the VIN, CARFAX will generate a report that includes all available information about the car’s history. You can also ask the dealer or seller to provide you with a CARFAX report. Most reputable dealers will provide a CARFAX report for free or for a nominal fee.

What information does a CARFAX report contain?

A CARFAX report contains a wealth of information about a vehicle’s history. Here are some of the most important pieces of information you can find in a CARFAX report:

1. Accident history: CARFAX reports contain information about accidents and other damage reported to the vehicle. This includes information about the severity of the damage and whether the car was considered a total loss.
2. Title information: CARFAX reports also include information about the car’s title history. This can help you identify if the car has a salvage or rebuilt title.
3. Service records: CARFAX reports can provide information about the car’s maintenance history, including oil changes, brake jobs, and other repairs.
4. Odometer readings: CARFAX reports can help you verify the accuracy of a car’s odometer reading. This can help you avoid buying a car with a rolled-back odometer.
5. Ownership history: CARFAX reports can provide information about the number of previous owners and how long each owner held the car.

How to read a CARFAX report?

Reading a CARFAX report can be a bit overwhelming, but it’s not as difficult as it seems. Here are some tips on how to read a CARFAX report:

1. Start with the summary: The summary section of the report provides a quick overview of the car’s history. This includes information about accidents, title history, and ownership.
2. Look for red flags: Pay attention to any red flags in the report, such as a salvage title or a high number of accidents.
3. Review the details: Take a closer look at the details section of the report, which includes information about service records and odometer readings. This section can help you get a better understanding of the car’s overall condition.

4. Check the VIN: Verify that the VIN on the report matches the VIN on the car. This can help you avoid buying a car with a cloned or altered VIN.
5. Get a second opinion: If you’re unsure about any aspect of the report, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion from a trusted mechanic or a professional car inspector.

How to use a CARFAX report to negotiate the price?

Once you have a CARFAX report, you can use it to negotiate the price of the car. Here are some tips on how to use a CARFAX report to your advantage:

1. Identify any red flags: If the CARFAX report shows that the car has a salvage title or a history of accidents, you can use this information to negotiate a lower price.
2. Point out any maintenance issues: If the CARFAX report shows that the car has had a lot of repairs or has not been well-maintained, you can use this information to negotiate a lower price.
3. Use the car’s history to your advantage: If the CARFAX report shows that the car has been well-maintained and has a clean title, you can use this information to negotiate a higher price.
4. Don’t be afraid to walk away: If the seller is not willing to negotiate a fair price based on the CARFAX report, don’t be afraid to walk away. There are plenty of other used cars on the market.

First is a title check

The title of a vehicle should tell you if the car is a registered lemon, has been salvaged, was flooded or completely rebuilt. I have known managers who keep two sets of titles, the old title, and the new title. The old title has the vehicles old history and doesn’t disclose anything. The new title would indeed show the status as being a “salvaged” vehicle, but they tend to forget to show you the new title. A CARFAX report will give you the status of the title regardless of what the actual title says.

Second is an odometer check

The most common need for this is a rolled back odometer. I have seen 2 vehicles with a rolled back odometer. One I could instantly tell something wasn’t right, but the other would have fooled me. It was a 5 year old car that was registered in Montana. The odometer said 68,000 miles which is reasonable for a car 5 years old. When I pulled the CARFAX as I always did it showed that the vehicle had a smog check done about 300 miles away and the vehicle had 137,000 miles at the time! I asked the customer about the discrepancy and he walked out immediately! Without the CARFAX I would have been stuck with a vehicle with a rolled back odometer.

Third is a what CARFAX calls the “Problem Check”

The problem check is a little vague, but gives some great information. It will tell you if the vehicle has been in a major accident (even if it wasn’t salvaged), was sold at a salvage auction (even if it wasn’t salvaged), has been involved in a fire (never buy a car involved in a fire), or if it was stolen. If a vehicle has been in a major accident, I would avoid it completely. Vehicles involved in accidents tend to have more problems throughout the years, and won’t be worth the money you’ll save.

Lastly is the registration check

Most of this information is available at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV, or whatever your state calls it), but CARFAX organizes the information for you to see and understand. The registration check will tell you how the vehicle has been registered in the past. Different types of registrations are handled differently by the DMV. This report will tell you if the vehicle was used as a rental, police car (even for undercover operations), taxi, fleet, or even if it was leased (and to whom it was leased). This information will help you better understand the history of the vehicle and how it was cared for. Fleet cars are taken care of extremely well, and I’ll tell you why in a later article.

CARFAX reports usually cost about $25 and are worth every penny. Many dealerships have a contract with CARFAX and can pull a this report at no cost to you. I pulled a CARFAX on every vehicle I sold and kept them in a binder to show customers. My cost was less than $10 for each report. If you are progressing through the sales process, and the manager can see you’re serious he won’t have a problem pulling a CARFAX for you.

In conclusion, getting a CARFAX report is an essential step in the used car buying process. By reviewing a CARFAX report, you can get a complete picture of a car’s history, including its accident history, title information, service records, odometer readings, and more. This information can help you make an informed decision before buying a used car, and can also help you negotiate a fair price. Don’t buy a used car without first getting a CARFAX report. It’s a small investment that can save you a lot of money and headaches down the road.

As you can see, for $25 a CARFAX report can provide you with peace of mind, but also can potentially save you from a major used car buying problem!