Importance of a vintage car VIN number lookup
As earlier mentioned, the importance of carrying out a vintage VIN check cannot be overstated, as the purchase of a reliable vehicle depends on the information collected on this vehicle through a vehicle history report. Some of the major benefits of carrying out a VIN check include: Verifying the authenticity of the vehicle
According to the Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, an average vintage car costs between $20,000 and $100,000. In other words, they are expensive purchases, and car buyers must be cautious before committing to such purchases. With a vehicle history report, you can verify the originality and authenticity of a vintage car before making payments. A rebuilt title, for example, found through a vehicle history report, should tell you that the vehicle may have had almost all of its parts damaged and changed.
You can also spot counterfeit or replica vehicles that have been designed to look like the original but are most definitely not.
Checking for potential fraud or theft
Are you being deceived into purchasing a stolen classic car? Well, you won't find out until you generate a vehicle history report with the vintage car VIN check tool provided by Detailed Vehicle History. There are different ways you can identify fraudsters during car sales:
– Take a good look at the generated vehicle history report and see if you can find theft records. If you find any, be sure to turn away from the deal, no matter how good it looks.
– Skip to the ownership records and check the records of previous owners and their locations. If it does not tally with the information provided by the seller, know that it's a stolen vehicle.
Finding out the vehicle's market value
The market value is one detail that you need to know to avoid being overcharged at a dealership or private sale. With a vintage car vehicle history report, you will gain insights on the vehicle's current market value and negotiate properly. How to do a vintage car VIN lookup
To perform a vintage car VIN lookup, simply follow these steps:
– Locate the VIN of your classic car: Before the standardization, VINs on vintage cars were placed on different parts of the vehicles according to the manufacturer's design. Some of the vehicle parts you can check include:On a plate attached to the firewall or dashboard of the vehicle
On the engine block or transmission
On the frame or chassis of the vehicle
On a plate or sticker attached to the driver's side door or door jamb
In the glove compartment or trunk of the vehicle
Vehicle registration documents
– After locating the VIN, the next step is to visit the Detailed Vehicle History website.
Fill out the provided form with the requested information.
– Select “VIN Check.”
Carfax and most vehicle history report providers are unable to provide classic car data but with Detailed Vehicle History, you gain a unique opportunity to view the full specifications, history, and records of any vintage vehicle as well as generate a detailed vehicle history report.
Tips for vintage car buyers and owners
If you are purchasing a vintage car, here are some tips that you should remember to make the most of your money:
– Do your research: Research the make and model of the vintage car you're interested in, including its history, specifications, and any known issues or common repairs.
– Inspect the car carefully: When inspecting the car, look for signs of rust, wear and tear, and other issues that may impact its condition or value.
– Get a professional inspection: Consider having the car inspected by a vintage car specialist or mechanic to identify any potential issues or concerns.
– Check the VIN and documentation: Verify the VIN number with standard VIN check tools such as the Detailed Vehicle History or Classic Decoder VIN check tools and check the car's documentation, including its title, registration, and maintenance records, to ensure its authenticity and history. – Consider the costs of ownership: Vintage cars require specialized care and maintenance, so factor in the cost of upkeep and any needed repairs when budgeting for a purchase.
For owners of vintage cars, here are some tips that could extend your vehicle's lifespan:
– Keep up with maintenance: If you want to keep your vintage car in good shape, then you have to carry out maintenance regularly.
– Store the car properly: Is your car kept in a cool, dry place? Well, it should be. Make sure your vintage car is taken away from direct sunlight and try as much as possible to keep it covered to protect it from dust and debris.
– Drive the car regularly: While vintage cars should be driven sparingly, regular use can help prevent issues caused by long periods of inactivity.
– Keep documentation up-to-date: Make sure that all papers are up-to-date and properly stored. Documents such as the certificate of title, registration documents, and insurance papers should be kept properly in a safe place.
– Join a vintage car club: Consider joining a vintage car club or community to connect with other enthusiasts and gain access to resources and knowledge about maintaining and restoring vintage cars.
By following these tips, vintage car buyers and owners can get the most out of their money and vehicles.