There are several sources, some for a fee, that will “provide information”” to a consumer about a used car. The information is not false, but it can be very misleading.

Example: A car suffers a broken windshield (a stone hit), and some years later a parking lot low- speed fender bender. Because the damages were submitted as insurance claims, and met some pre-determined dollar value, The “___ fax” report proclaims “two accidents”; perhaps misleading one to conclude there was damage of serious concern. The details of the “accidents” are not available (some do however quantify flood damage or salvage title).

These reports also boast of a vehicle’s maintenance record. But nothing claims that the report is complete! Only services done through registered dealerships are reflected. If the vehicle was serviced by a local garage, none of that work will show.

So, what do these reports provide? The benefits are directed to the seller. For them, it is a reference to justify buying low; it is an avenue of far reaching advertisement; it is the opportunity to sell their autos more quickly and at premium prices. Be smarter than the “fox”!

David MacMaster

Hannawa Falls