How to Order Utah Vehicle History Reports
A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) acts like a serial number, and allows for the tracking of ownership, car accidents, reported damages and titling history of a car. Fortunately, A VIN number lookup is easily obtainable as you can request a vehicle history report online.
How to Order an Online VIN Report in Utah
A VIN lookup can be done online, from the convenience of your computer or your smartphone device. An online request allows you to view a vehicle’s report instantly, no matter where you are.
Reports are delivered quickly, allowing you to view a report prior to making a purchase at a car dealership or from a private seller, as well as use a report as a form of negotiation if there is a derogatory mark on the report, itself.
What info is in a Utah VIN history report?
By checking VIN numbers in Utah, you can find an abundance of information regarding a vehicle’s history, including ownership details, odometer readings, lien history and title and accident history.
When you look up a VIN, you will learn how many owners a vehicle previously had, as well as what the vehicle was used for in the past. If a vehicle has previously been used as a rental vehicle or taxi, this information will be displayed in the report. Additionally, odometer readings are reported each time a vehicle changes hands.
This is an incredibly important piece of information, as there are individuals who may attempt to fraudulently alter an odometer reading in order to increase the value of the vehicle. In addition, if a vehicle still has a lender listed on the title, it will also show on the history report. It is important to know that a vehicle that still has an unpaid loan remaining can be repossessed by a lender.
A VIN number check will also yield information regarding a vehicle’s title and accident history. Therefore, you will find information about any accidents that the vehicle has been involved in, as well as extensive damages, lengthy repairs, flood damage and whether or not a vehicle has ever been declared as a “total loss” by an insurance provider. A vehicle is considered a total loss if:
- An insurer deems that the vehicle has sustained so much damage that it is uneconomical to repair the vehicle.
- The vehicle has undergone flood damage.
- The vehicle is part of an unrecoverable theft.
If total loss is declared, a salvage title is issued for the vehicle. It is very important that you are aware of salvage titles up front, as a vehicle associated with a salvage title is often harder to sell, harder to insure and may cost higher premiums to insure.
A VIN lookup can also yield a service history, including whether or not the vehicle has undergone regular maintenance. This can help you predetermine how a vehicle has been cared for, and what its life expectancy may be.
Why would I need to perform a VIN check in Utah?
Now that you know how to check a VIN number in Utah, it is important to understand why you would need to acquire a vehicle report. While looking up a VIN number can be invaluable in a number of instances, it is vital when it comes to the purchase and sale of a vehicle.
If you are purchasing a used vehicle from a dealership or a private seller, a vehicle report can remove the guesswork from a vehicle’s history, and allow you to make an informed decision regarding your purchase. By becoming aware of any accidents or major repairs that a vehicle has been involved in, you can decide whether or not a vehicle is worth your investment.
It is especially important to request a VIN report if you are considering the purchase of a vehicle from a private seller. As stated previously, a vehicle report can provide valuable information, such as if an odometer reading has been illegally altered, if there is still a lien or lender on a vehicle or if the vehicle has been declared a total loss due to theft. Therefore, requesting a report is the best way to ensure your safety, as well as ensure that you are purchasing the car as advertised.
It is a good idea to request a VIN number report if you are selling a vehicle, as well. A vehicle’s history report can make your car more attractive to potential buyers, as well as boost your own credibility.
How do I locate my vehicle’s VIN number?
In order to obtain a VIN history, you will first need to locate the vehicle identification number on the vehicle, itself, or on associated documents. The identification number can be found on a vehicle’s title and registration paperwork, and within the vehicle’s owner’s manual. Additionally, a VIN is displayed on associating documents, like auto insurance cards.
Alternatively, you can find this identification number on the vehicle, itself. Generally, that number will be displayed on:
- The front of the engine block.
- The front of the vehicle’s frame.
- The rear wheel
- The inside of the driver-side
- The driver-side doorpost
- The space beneath the spare tire in the vehicle’s trunk
Vehicle History Report Fees in Utah
A certified vehicle history report costs $10.75 in Utah.
Vehicle History Report Forms
Note: DMV forms change regularly. The forms provided above are current based on the date of writing.
Sources
- Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) from DLD.Utah.gov