If you want to run a VIN check in Canada, the most mentioned websites are probably CarProof or Carfax Canada. However, these two websites are the same. In fact, CarProof has now rebranded into Carfax Canada.
But does that mean Carfax Canada is the best option for running a VIN check before buying a used car?
It may be the most popular option, but we dare to say that there are better Carfax alternatives – like Detailed Vehicle History – that offer better and more in-depth reports. Some also offer free VIN decoders!
Let’s get to comparing.
Feature Comparison: Carfax Canada (CarProof) vs. Detailed Vehicle History
If you’re looking for an alternative to Carfax Canada – formerly known as CarProofs – Detailed Vehicle History is the right choice.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the features that both Carfax Canada and Detailed Vehicle History offer.
Features | CarProof | Detailed Vehicle History |
Detailed Vehicle Specifications | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Ownership History | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Odometer Reading | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Recall Check | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Accident Records | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Damage History | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Market Value | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Service History | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Lien and Loan Records | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Theft Records | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Sales History | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Auction History | ❌ | ✔️ |
Title Brand | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Repair Cost | ❌ | ✔️ |
Insurance Loss | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Vehicle Usage | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Images (if available) | ❌ | ✔️ |
Warranty Coverage | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Window sticker | ❌ | ✔️ |
Build sheet for classic cars | ❌ | ✔️ |
Pricing | $44.99 | $15 |
Features | CarProof | Detailed Vehicle History |
Detailed Vehicle Specifications | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Ownership History | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Odometer Reading | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Recall Check | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Accident Records | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Damage History | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Market Value | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Service History | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Lien and Loan Records | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Theft Records | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Sales History | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Auction History | ❌ | ✔️ |
Title Brand | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Repair Cost | ❌ | ✔️ |
Insurance Loss | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Vehicle Usage | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Images (if available) | ❌ | ✔️ |
Warranty Coverage | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Window sticker | ❌ | ✔️ |
Build sheet for classic cars | ❌ | ✔️ |
Pricing | $45 | $15.00 |
Note: Carfax Canada is practically identical to the U.S. version, but there are several differences that may be worth noting:
- Users can switch between English and French
- Recalls are based on the ones issued in Canada
- Emission and safety ratings aren’t issued in the reports as they are irrelevant in Canada
- Odometer readings use Kilometers (KMs) by default
Based on the comparison of the report features above, it’s quite clear which one offers better value for money – wouldn’t you say?
Need more convincing? Check our sample report below.
Additionally, here are some other reviews comparing the best VIN check and vehicle history report providers:
- AutoCheck vs. Carfax: Finding the Better Alternative
- Bumper vs. Carfax VIN Check: Who Has the Better Reports?
- Comparing the Budget Carfax Alternatives: EpicVIN vs. AutoCheck
- CarVertical vs. Carfax: Finding the Affordable VIN Check Alternative
- VinGurus vs. Carfax: Finding the Best VIN Check Provider
- VinCheckUp vs. Carfax: Who is the Better VIN Check Provider?
Carfax Canada Reviews: What Are People Saying?
Detailed Vehicle History |
Carfax Canada |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a free Carfax report?
No. Neither Carfax nor Carfax Canada (CarProofs) offer a free vehicle history report, except it’s provided by the dealer from whom you plan to purchase a used vehicle.
Is there another way to get a vehicle history report without the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)?
Yes. You can also search a vehicle’s history by conducting a reverse license plate lookup. This service involves entering the plate number in the license plate search tool to uncover details about the car’s history. The service is provided by Detailed Vehicle History at the same rate as the VIN check service.
How do I carry out a stolen check when buying a used car from a private seller?
It’s super easy. Simply enter the vehicle’s VIN into our VIN decoder page and submit it to perform a check for any stolen records. You can also visit the NICB website for free to check for any records of insurance theft claims.