The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) offers a free Vin Search service called VINCheck. This tool allows you to check if a vehicle has been reported as stolen but not recovered, or salvaged by participating insurance companies. All you need is the vehicle identification number (VIN). You’re limited to five searches per IP address within a 24-hour period.
How to Perform a VIN Search with VINCheck
Using VINCheck is straightforward. Simply enter the vehicle’s 17-digit VIN into the designated field on the NICB website.
While there used to be a photo upload option, the current version of the website requires manual VIN entry.
Understanding VINCheck Results
After entering the VIN, VINCheck cross-references it against a database of theft and salvage records from participating insurance companies. Remember:
- Limited Scope: VINCheck only accesses records from participating insurers, not all insurance companies or law enforcement agencies. It doesn’t replace a comprehensive vehicle history report.
- Potential for Errors: While VINCheck is a valuable tool, information may not be complete or error-free. Always conduct thorough research before buying a vehicle.
- Terms of Use: Using VINCheck results means you agree to the terms and conditions.
If you encounter issues, such as not seeing the input field, try clearing your browser’s cache.
Beyond VIN Search: Comprehensive Vehicle History Reports
VINCheck provides a basic overview, but a comprehensive vehicle history report offers more detailed information. Several providers offer these reports for a fee:
For Cars and Trucks:
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NMVTIS: The National Motor Vehicle Titling Information System (NMVTIS) is a government-run database providing title and brand information.
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ClearVin: ClearVin offers detailed vehicle history reports.
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EpicVIN: EpicVIN is another provider of comprehensive vehicle history reports.
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VinAudit: VinAudit.com provides vehicle history reports with detailed information.
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VinSmart: vinsmart.com offers comprehensive vehicle history reports.
For Motorcycles:
- CycleVIN: CycleVIN specializes in motorcycle history reports.
For Boats:
- BoatHistoryReport.com: BoatHistoryReport.com provides history reports for boats.
For Commercial Vehicles:
- BigRigVIN: BigRigVIN.com specializes in history reports for commercial vehicles.
Conclusion
A VIN search using NICB’s VINCheck is a valuable first step in researching a vehicle’s history. While it doesn’t provide a complete picture, it can alert you to potential red flags like theft or salvage titles. For a thorough understanding, consider investing in a full vehicle history report from a reputable provider. Remember, due diligence is crucial when purchasing a vehicle.
