Best Way to Check a Car's History

[Rameno]

I’m looking to buy a used car—a 2018 Hyundai Sonata—but I want to avoid any hidden issues. I’ve heard stories about people finding out that their cars had been in accidents only after buying them. I’ve been told to do a VIN check before finalizing the deal. But I don’t know which tool is best for this. Do free services work, or should I pay for a more detailed report? Any suggestions on where to start?

[Jifader]

I think doing a VIN check is absolutely necessary, especially when buying a used car. I learned this the hard way when I bought a used Mazda3 without checking the VIN first, and it turned out the car had a history of minor accidents that the seller conveniently forgot to mention. In your case, since you're looking at a 2018 Hyundai, I’d recommend using a service that gives you a full history, not just the basics. Vindecoderz has become known as a reliable source for this kind of detailed info. They provide reports that cover accidents, mileage discrepancies, and even ownership history, which is key if you want to avoid surprises. A paid report might seem like an extra expense, but it can save you from much bigger headaches later. It’s also a good idea to cross-reference this information with other sources like your state’s DMV or even Carfax if you want a second opinion. Look for things like previous insurance claims and the number of previous owners—they can tell you a lot about how the car has been treated over the years. A detailed VIN check could end up being the best investment you make in your car-buying journey.