Illustrated guide · fictional data

What the CARFAX report covers.

This page walks through the kinds of information a CARFAX vehicle history report can contain, using fictional data and our own layout. It helps you decide whether the report is worth buying before you check a specific VIN.

This is not the actual CARFAX report. It is an illustration made by VIN Info Hub with our own layout, wording and fictional data. The report you buy is produced by CARFAX, Inc. and looks different.

Illustration

CARFAX report — sections explained

Fictional example: 2018 midsize sedan, VIN not shown

  1. Title history and brands

    Whether a state title was ever branded, for example salvage, rebuilt, flood or lemon.

    Title brands reported
    None reported
    States the vehicle was titled in
    2

  2. Accidents and damage

    Accidents or damage events that were reported, with the date and, when available, the severity.

    Damage events reported
    1
    Example entry
    Minor damage reported, front impact — 2021

  3. Ownership

    How many owners were recorded, how long each kept the car and how it was used.

    Owners recorded
    2
    Usage reported
    Personal

  4. Odometer

    Mileage readings collected over time, so an unusual drop or gap stands out.

    Last reading
    61,200 miles — 2024
    Readings inconsistent
    No issues reported

  5. Service and inspections

    Maintenance and inspection visits that shops reported.

    Service visits reported
    9
    Example entry
    Oil and filter changed — 2023

  6. Open recalls

    Manufacturer safety recalls still listed as open when the report was produced, when available.

    Open recalls
    1

What a real report contains depends on what has been reported for that VIN. A section appears only when the provider holds data for it, so a report can show fewer sections than this illustration.

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