Check identity, chronology, mileage and damage without confusing missing records with an absence of problems.
Read a history report as a file of evidence rather than a final traffic-light verdict. Work through identity, dates and events, then turn uncertainties into questions for the seller and inspection points.
Identity History evidence Where to find the VINStart with the vehicle number
Start with available technical details for free. The OBDAuto decoder does not provide accident, mileage, theft or service history.
Free checks and what a paid report may addHow to read a history reportRead the evidence, not just a verdict
Public carVertical demonstration screenshots, not reports purchased or cases investigated by OBDAuto. An example does not guarantee the same data for your car and does not replace an inspection.
carVertical · demonstration exampleRead the event type, date and estimate range. An assessment is not a paid invoice, and amounts should not automatically be added together.
Screenshot source: carVertical ↗ carVertical · demonstration exampleCompare the specifications with the documents and the actual car. This screenshot shows technical details, not a mileage timeline.
Screenshot source: carVertical ↗ Buying guide Editorial review: 22 October 2026Resolve any difference between vehicle markings, documents and the report before paying a deposit. An empty report does not confirm that the car has never been damaged.
Request a clear photo of the VIN on the car and the relevant documents, then arrange dates and mileage readings in order. Keep a budget for an independent inspection.
'No data found' describes a search result. It does not prove that an accident, theft or mileage alteration never occurred.
Your first check at the car
Illustrative windscreen photos from different vehicles. The exact position depends on make, model and market; these images are not model-specific instructions for every car in the guide.
Look from outside at the base of the windscreenWesha · Public domain · Resized and compressed as WebP; cropped for display.
GM example: the plate seen through the windscreenHans Haase · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Resized and compressed as WebP; cropped for display.
Some models show the VIN through the windscreen. A door-frame label or a stamped marking may be elsewhere; check the manufacturer’s manual for your model.
Compare the marking with the vehicle documents and report. Do not confuse an engine code or a part number with the VIN.
Do not scrape or alter markings. If a number is missing, hard to read or does not match, ask a specialist to verify the vehicle’s identity.
Build a date–source–reading–unit list and compare the last entry with today's odometer. An upward graph may contain years without data. Do not calculate a precise 'true mileage' by extrapolating a previous owner's driving rate.
If a decrease appears, first check kilometres versus miles, date, VIN and documented corrections or instrument replacement. A verbal explanation does not resolve the discrepancy.
Sources for Dutch, Belgian and French cars → Sources: NHTSA — odometer fraudRead each event's original label, date, country and supporting records. An assessment card should not automatically become a confirmed accident. An estimated cost does not necessarily show the amount paid or the work actually done.
Match photos and affected areas to disclosed repairs. Nearby records may concern the same event, so avoid double counting. Treat administrative brands separately and check their meaning in the issuing country.
Interpreting an alleged total loss → Sources: carVertical — meaning of damage valuationsFinally, obtain important seller answers in writing and arrange an independent inspection. The report helps select checks; current condition needs separate assessment.
On a phone, scroll the table to see all columns.
4. Turn the report into a checking plan| Finding | Request | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| Mileage discrepancy | Source document and dated explanation. | Chronology and independent checking. |
| Damage event | Assessment, photos and invoices. | Inspect the area and relevant systems. |
| Gap in records | Service records, countries and usage. | Assess remaining uncertainty before payment. |
| Possible error | Clarification from provider and issuer. | Do not alter the report yourself; retain versions. |
Tick off completed checks. The list resets when you reload the page.
0 / 6 checks completed
The VIN and document refer to the same car. I noted the report date and limitations. I compared readings and units. I separated assessments from confirmed events. I requested documents for discrepancies. I prepared inspection points.Not alone. Confirm identity, documents and condition before the transaction.
Should I add all damage figures?Not automatically. They may be estimates, updates or records of the same event.
Should I ignore an incorrect entry?Request provider clarification or correction with evidence and retain the original documents.
Do you offer vehicle inspections, history reports or transport?
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