Finding out too late that there's a lemon in your garage is enough to make your lips pucker. Fortunately, a nationwide database, expected to be fully in place by the end of January, will make it easier to access a car's troubled past.
The National Motor Vehicle Title Information System is the result of a law enacted long ago but only now being implemented in all 50 states under pressure from consumer groups; the statute requires insurance companies and salvage yards to report vehicles that have been totaled or severely damaged.
| Row 0 - Cell 0 | Kiplinger's Car Buying Guide |
| Row 1 - Cell 0 | TOOL: Compare New Models |
| Row 2 - Cell 0 | VIDEO: Buy Last Year's Car Model? |
Using the vehicle identification number (VIN), potential buyers can run a background check to get a car's odometer reading and theft record, and to find out whether the vehicle has been flooded, totaled, salvaged or smashed.
From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance
Become a smarter, better informed investor. Subscribe from just $107.88 $24.99, plus get up to 4 Special Issues
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
Data is expected to be more comprehensive and up-to-date than that available now from other services -- and less expensive than a $30 CarFax report, although fees haven't been finalized yet. You'll likely be able to access the information from several Web sites.
A vehicle's history could be crucial in determining whether your car is roadworthy or whether the manufacturer will honor the warranty.
-- Candice Lee Jones