New articles on VIN checks, report reading, and inspection tips — written for first-time and repeat buyers alike.
Founded in 1984, Carfax is now owned by S&P Global and headquartered in Virginia. Here's the founding story, ownership timeline, and why it matters for trust.
Read guide →What does "functional damage" or a "branded title" actually mean on a Carfax report? Plain-English definitions for every damage and title term you'll encounter.
Read guide →Carfax, AutoCheck, Bumper, CarGurus — which vehicle history report is actually worth paying for? A side-by-side comparison of price, data depth, and best use case.
Read guide →You can pull a Carfax report using either the VIN or, in most states, a license plate. Here's the step-by-step process, what you'll get back, and key limitations to know.
Read guide →Carfax isn't free, but you have options. See current pricing, why reports cost what they do, and legitimate free or cheaper alternatives worth checking first.
Read guide →Carfax doesn't inspect cars — it pulls records from 112,000+ sources including DMVs, insurers, and repair shops. Here's exactly where the data comes from and how a report gets built.
Read guide →Carfax is accurate for reported events — but accidents paid for in cash or unreported damage won't show up. Here's exactly what Carfax gets right, where the gaps are, and how to verify a report before you buy.
Read guide →A VIN isn't random — it encodes the manufacturer, model, and year, and unlocks a car's full history. Here's how to decode a VIN and what a VIN check actually reveals.
Read guide →Vehicle history reports are dense and full of jargon. This line-by-line guide breaks down every section — title, accidents, mileage, ownership — so you know exactly what you're reading.
Read guide →