FYI a VIN search will only tell you whats been reported. That's only half the story. Take the time to look in and around everything to be sure what you're getting into. Once in while you'll run across a car that was never reported to insurance only to find out it's a total hack job and the frame is toast. But hey, it's got a clean title! LOL.. Also, a VIN search will reveal if the car is salvaged (so will looking at the title which is free if the guy has it) but won't tell you why. Is this a big deal? YES! Many people will write off their cars because the motor has problems. No big deal. Replace it and go. The down side is you loose value on your car because of this but it doesn't actually hurt the car itself. Good for you when you buy a car cheaper because of it, bad for you when it's time to sell.
Moral of the story, be knowledgeable about what the hell you're buying. Don't rely on a piece of paper or what you read on the internet. YOU must live with your choice so make it count!! Learn some things and apply your knowledge
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