What is the VIN number?
The VIN (Vehicle Identification number) is a unique identifier assigned to each vehicle. It consists of 17 characters that contain information about the brand, model, year of production and the characteristic features of the vehicle. The VIN number is used to track the vehicle history, such as repairs, technical inspections and accidents. This is a key element when checking the technical condition and vehicle history before buying.
Title brands tell potential customers whether a used vehicle has sustained damage or might be potentially unsafe to drive. Note that if a vehicle's title has been "branded," it is an official designation made by a state agency and should appear on the vehicle's title paperwork. Neither individuals nor private companies can brand titles.
While title brands vary by state, some of the most common ones include:
- Salvage
- Junk
- Totaled
- Lemon
- Flood
- Reconstructed
Not only do different states have their own specific set of title brands, but what might be
considered a salvage title in one state may have a slightly different definition in another state.
If you have questions about what title brands are used in your state, we recommend contacting
your state's department of motor vehicles.
An AutoCheck vehicle history report is a valuable tool when trying to figure out whether a vehicle you want to purchase has a branded title. Within the report, you will be notified of any records that AutoCheck has in its database on whether or not a branded title has been issued on a specific vehicle.
