How to Order Indiana Vehicle History Reports
To more accurately assess the condition of a car, a VIN lookup can be requested by Indiana drivers. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) found in a car is used to access car records. Because each VIN is exclusive, the history provides detailed information about events, such as car accidents, repairs and odometer readings. Residents can even discover if a vehicle is identified as stolen. Using a thorough car history report, drivers can select vehicles to purchase that are up to par with their standards.
There are two methods provided by Indiana’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) to look up VIN information. Residents can request a history report online or by mail. While ordering vehicle records by mail is effective, it is not as efficient as processing an application online.
How to Perform a VIN Number Check Online in Indiana
The VIN number lookup process is quickly and conveniently completed online. By entering a small amount of personal information, residents can generate vehicle history reports instantly. Instead of waiting for documents to be sent by mail and processed, a comprehensive analysis is received right at home. Additionally, using the online process eliminates any issues that may arise from sending forms via mail.
After logging on to the trustworthy VIN generator, simply input personal and vehicle data into the request form. A valid email address and the vehicle ID number are necessary to provide an accurate report. When the required information has been submitted, a detailed car history document is immediately sent. Drivers will have access to all of the needed information in order to make the best vehicle purchase decision.
Checking VIN Number Information by Mail in Indiana
Another VIN code lookup method available in Illinois is sending a request by mail. Compared to the online submission form process, mail-in requests take more time and effort. Residents can expect a much longer waiting period to receive an inquiry response.
The state-issued request for certified records must be mailed to the IN BMV with the necessary information. This form can be downloaded online and printed in advance for added convenience. Personal information and vehicle details should be provided with complete accuracy. The following details are required:
- The name of the individual or business requesting a report
- Telephone number
- Email address
- Mailing address
- Social Security Number (SSN)
Next, the IN VIN code, car title number and vehicle make and model are needed for successful processing. Lastly, the resident must indicate the reason why a vehicle history report is being requested.
In addition to the records request, acceptable payments must be remitted to the BMV. Money order, cashier’s check and business check are the only acceptable forms to pay for the mandated fee. However, for residents with previous IN BMV records, personal checks can be used as payment. When the document is processed and validated, a vehicle history report is sent via mail.
What info is in an Indiana VIN history report?
The information provided when looking up VIN number details covers a wide range of important maintenance and ownership issues. On the report, the specific information listed will include:
- Previous owners of a vehicle. This information verifies the seller is truly the most recent owner of the car.
- Impound and tow information. Potential owners should understand the reasons why a vehicle was previously impounded or towed, especially when mechanical issues are involved.
- Accident history, including any relevant flood damage. Accident reports on a VIN code lookup reveal major and minor damage a vehicle has incurred over time.
- Previous odometer readings. Past readings indicate the wear and tear on a vehicle, based on how many miles the car has driven. Potential drivers can also discover whether a seller has deliberately reversed an odometer to show lower mileage.
- Major defects or recalls. These issues indicate previous mechanical problems with a vehicle that could potentially be unsafe for drivers. If a major defect or recall is indicated, buyers and sellers should ensure the car has been properly fixed.
- Theft status of a vehicle. If a vehicle was previously named as stolen, the history report will state the relevant details. Potential buyers should be cautious about purchasing a car with a background indicating occurrences of theft.
Additionally, when learning how to check VIN number information, you will find specifications, sale prices, repairs, title brands of a vehicle and more. While this information may be tedious to examine, the benefits of understanding past car issues are immense.
Why would I need to perform a VIN check in Indiana?
Whether an Indiana resident is buying or selling a vehicle, an ID check should always be completed. Generating a car history report will make the process go as smoothly as possible for both parties. Buyers especially benefit from discovering the history of a used vehicle. Major mechanical issues in the past indicate a car will be unreliable and/or unsafe in the future.
By understanding how to check a VIN report, sellers can use vehicle records to gain the trust of potential buyers. Consumers who are shown the previous asking price of a used car are likelier to feel justified in making car purchases. Additionally, buyers may tell their family and friends about the credibility of a vehicle dealer or an individual seller.
How do I locate my vehicle’s VIN number?
Car identification numbers are available in a variety of places for the convenience of drivers. Car insurance cards, vehicle registration papers and title documents all contain this information. If a VIN number report is requested without the availability of these documents, IDs can also be found on a vehicle itself.
On the other hand, the specific make, model and year of a car determine where drivers should look. In most cases, the identification number is located on the driver’s side dashboard or side door.
Vehicle History Report Fees in Indiana
A vehicle record request costs $8 in Indiana.
Vehicle History Report Forms
Note: DMV forms change regularly. The forms provided above are current based on the date of writing.
Sources
- Title Forms from IN.gov