How to correctly interpret a vehicle history report

Examine previous photographs

Photographs may provide more context than the description or estimated value of the damage.

Look for:

• the direction of the impact;

• missing components;

• deformation of the engine compartment;

• the position of the wheels;

• the frame rails;

• the pillars;

• the side sills;

• the roof;

• the floor;

• the airbags;

• the interior;

• signs of water or fire damage.

Compare the images with the car’s current condition. Check whether the affected components were replaced and whether there are signs that the repair was only cosmetic.

Photographs cannot confirm the quality of the current repair. A physical inspection is required.

What does the absence of damage records mean?

It means that no damage events were identified in the available sources for the VIN checked.

It does not guarantee that the car:

• has never been damaged;

• has no repainted panels;

• has never been repaired;

• retains all its original components;

• has never had its airbags deployed.

Some accidents are repaired without an insurance claim or at a workshop that does not provide information to accessible databases.

Complete the report with paint thickness measurements, electronic diagnostics, and an inspection on a lift.

Check for commercial use

The report may indicate whether the vehicle was registered or used as:

• a taxi;

• a rental car;

• a fleet vehicle;

• a leased vehicle;

• a passenger transport vehicle;

• another type of commercial vehicle.

This information does not automatically mean that the car is in poor condition.

A fleet car may have been serviced regularly and driven mainly on motorways. However, a taxi or rental vehicle may have more significant urban and interior wear.

Compare the type of use with the mileage, service history, and current condition.

Check the theft records

The theft section shows the results of checks performed against the available databases.

If an active record or significant discrepancy appears:

• do not pay for the car;

• do not proceed with the transaction;

• check the documents;

• request official clarification;

• contact the relevant authorities.

The absence of a record is not a universal guarantee because database availability differs between countries.

Check the recalls

A recall campaign is initiated when the manufacturer identifies a problem that must be corrected.

Check:

• the description of the problem;

• the affected system;

• the stated risk;

• whether the work has been completed;

• what needs to be done next.

The existence of a recall does not automatically mean that the car is a poor choice. Many recall repairs are completed free of charge through the manufacturer’s authorised network.

Contact an authorised dealer to confirm the status and arrange the required repair.

How should you interpret emissions information?

Emissions data and the applicable emissions standard may affect:

• taxes;

• access to certain areas;

• registration costs;

• resale value;

• eligibility for certain programmes;

• use in other countries.

Compare the information in the report with the vehicle’s documents.

If you intend to register the car in another country, check the local regulations before buying.

What do the Euro NCAP results show?

Euro NCAP information provides context about the safety performance of the model tested.

Bear in mind that:

• the results apply to a specific version and testing period;

• testing protocols change over time;

• two results from different years are not always directly comparable;

• safety equipment may vary between versions;

• the model’s result does not confirm the condition of the specific car being checked.

A car with a good rating may still be unsafe if its structure or airbags were repaired incorrectly.

Use the market valuation as a reference

The estimated market value helps you compare the asking price with similar vehicles.

Analyse:

• the estimated range;

• the year;

• the mileage;

• the engine;

• the equipment;

• the history;

• the technical condition;

• the market in which the car is being sold.

A price below the estimate does not automatically represent an opportunity. It may reflect damage, wear, incomplete documents, or required repairs.

A price above average may be justified by the equipment, maintenance, and condition, but it should be supported by evidence.

Check the ITP and legal information

The report may include information about the validity of the ITP roadworthiness inspection and other available administrative data.

A valid ITP does not guarantee:

• the absence of damage;

• genuine mileage;

• perfect condition;

• the operation of every system;

• the quality of previous repairs.

Check the original documents, the seller’s identity, ownership rights, and any outstanding financing or encumbrances separately.

What does a section without records mean?

A section without results means that no data was identified in the sources consulted.

It does not automatically mean that:

• the event never occurred;

• the car has no problems;

• the check was not performed;

• the information was concealed.

Data availability varies depending on the country, make, age, and how the vehicle was used.

The report reflects the information available when it was generated.

How do you make the final decision?

After analysing the report, divide your findings into three categories.

Consistent information

The data matches the advertisement, the documents, and the condition of the car.

Points that require clarification

There may be periods without data, isolated readings, repainted panels, or minor differences that require an explanation.

Significant risks

These may include:

• decreasing mileage readings;

• structural damage;

• deployed airbags;

• photographs showing serious damage;

• concealed commercial use;

• a mismatched VIN;

• a theft record;

• inconsistent documents;

• refusal of an independent inspection.

Do not decide based only on the number of warnings. Consider their severity and how they relate to one another.

The report does not replace a physical inspection

Before buying:

• compare the VIN with the documents;

• measure the paint thickness;

• perform an electronic diagnostic scan;

• inspect the car on a lift;

• test every function;

• complete a test drive;

• request the invoices;

• check the documents;

• obtain written confirmation of the important information.

The report helps you understand where to look and which questions to ask.

Check the history before viewing the car

Enter the VIN on Certcar and analyse every section of the report, not only the damage or mileage.

Compare the information, request explanations for discrepancies, and complete the process with an inspection at an independent workshop before paying for the car.