John Perry bought his used Ford Taurus 14 years ago for $12,000. With 9,000 miles on it, John thought it was a steal. But the car ultimately began to rust, raising his suspicion that there may have been more to the car's past than he knew.
"I would try to touch up some rusty areas," Perry said.
Consumer Reports was able to check the history of his car by using the VIN (or vehicle identification number) through CARFAX, an online service which provides information about used cars.
Perry's suspicion was correct. The CARFAX report said his Ford had in fact been a rental car for seven months before he bought it.
It's all information John said he wished he had known.
"So, the 9,000 miles that were on the car were rental miles," he said.
"When you are buying used, it's important to know what that history is. Was it in a flood? Was it a rental car? Important details that may change your mind about buying it or not," Consumer Reports car expert Jen Stockburger said.
Local
The latest news from around North Texas.
Consumer Reports also said it's a good idea to get any used car inspected by an independent mechanic before you buy it.
"They can be a better indicator of the car's history and where it's at today," Stockburger said.
Perry said he definitely wouldn't buy used again without checking the car's history, and he said he considered himself lucky.
"It could have been worse for me. Mechanically, the car has been a terrific car. It really has," he said.
In addition to CARFAX, consumers can also use AutoCheck.com to look up their vehicle history. Keep in mind that these services are not free and cost about $30. To check for recalls go to SaferCar.gov.
You can also get a free VIN check report from the National Insurance Crime Bureau to see if the car had been reported stolen or as salvage.
