Get a CARFAX before you sign anything

Why it matters

• Odometer rollback check — cross-references every DMV touch, smog check, and service visit
• Accident history — police reports + insurance claims, not just one source
• Owner count — 1 = best, 2 = fine, 3+ = dig deeper
• Service records — confirms maintenance was actually done
• Open recalls — some are serious (airbag, fuel pump, fire)
• Title brands — salvage / flood / lemon / rebuilt change the fair price by 25–40%

How to read it in 5 minutes

1. Check the odometer graph — any downward step is a rollback flag.
2. Scan accidents — “minor” or “damage reported” needs follow-up.
3. Count unique owner names vs the seller’s claim.
4. Service intervals — 5–7k mi = well cared for, 20k+ gaps = red flag.
5. Cross-reference location — coastal Florida = rust-prone, Arizona = dry.