4 Businesses that Can’t Do without VIN History Reports

The ability to quickly access complete and accurate information about vehicles is highly valued in the automobile and allied industries, which explains the increasing number of people leveraging VIN history reports. VIN check offers an easy way to decode a vehicle’s specs and history, which is much faster and more convenient than going through vehicle manuals or OEM websites. Continuing on the subject, in this blog post, we list some businesses that particularly benefit from identifying vehicle specs through VIN history reports. Take a look.

Used Auto Retailers

Used auto dealers need to check the details of the vehicles they receive for sale. For them, identification of vehicle specifications by VIN is valuable as it supports them in inventory management, advertising, and selling vehicles. Some of the common specs auto sellers can identify using VIN include manufacturing, operation, and performance, which they need to provide to customers. The more detailed information a vehicle has, the sooner it is likely to get sold.

Body Shops

Vehicle maintenance and repair businesses, such as body shops, also require vehicle specs and other details. Easy access to specs like vehicle dimensions, color codes, and engine and transmission details by VIN saves a lot of time for them. Using the right parts and spares is necessary to establish customer trust and drive repeat business. VIN history reports allow such businesses to easily get all the details about the vehicles they service. Most of the top vehicle servicing shops in the U.S. rely on VIN decoding.

Auto Insurance Companies

VIN history reports enables insurance companies to assess the risk involved in insurance requests. Moreover, insurance companies also need VIN history reports to underwrite insurance policies. VIN history reports help ensure the underwriters utilize accurate and complete vehicle information. This is especially helpful when to find out whether a vehicle has certain safety features, such as blind spot detection and autonomous braking, as such features may reduce the insurance premium.

Vehicle Transporters

Vehicle shipping is another industry that uses VIN history reports. The physical specifications of a vehicle, such as its weight and dimension are necessary for auto shipment to create plan of action to ship it to its destination. VIN history reports also come in handy when choosing a mode of transportation for a vehicle and load balance. Identification of vehicle specs by VIN also allows shipping companies to provide accurate shipment quote and insurance coverage.

Wrap Up

Many businesses in and related to the automobile industry can streamline their day-to-day operations by identifying vehicle specifications with the help of a VIN check. All they need to do is obtain a VIN history report from a reliable vehicle history provider such as ClearVin.com. We help take the mystery out of a vehicle’s condition by providing detailed information about its past through its VIN history report. If you have any questions, feel free to reach us at +1-844-268-5991, or send a message and we will take it from there.

Under the Lens: 2018 Toyota RAV4 Adventure

The 2018 RAV4 Adventure is a testament of Toyota’s determination to capture the minds and hearts of outdoor adventure enthusiasts. Engineered for those who itch to get away from the chaotic city life as frequently as possible, the RAV4 is propelled by a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission system. Continue reading to find out what’s in store for car lovers in this all-wheel drive compact SUV.

Interior Features

  • 6.1-inch touchscreen with Entune infotainment system
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • LED headlights
  • 4.2-inch, multi-information display
  • Power-sliding sunroof
  • 60/40 split-folding rear seats
  • Premium upholstery
  • Rearview camera
  • Safety Sense P with pre-collision pedestrian detection system
  • Lane-keeping assist

Interior

Large cargo space and all-weather floor mats clearly make the statement that the RAV4 is tailored for outdoor enthusiasts. Measuring more than 73 cubic feet, the cargo space is enormous for a vehicle in this category. Similar to the RAV4 XLE, the interiors of RAV4 are simple and purposeful. The interiors primarily include easy-to-clean plastic surfaces that are ideal for off-road enthusiasts who like to take on uncharted territories.

Engine

The 2018 RAV4, like all RAV4s, is powered by a 2.5-liter, inline 4-cylinder engine pumping out 176 horsepower and 172 lb-ft. torque. The powertrain is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission that makes the RAV4 a dream to drive in even in extreme conditions. The power is transmitted to the wheels through an electronically controlled automatic gearbox that is largely responsible for the car’s exceptional drive quality.

Drive

Be it navigating city streets or cruising the highways, the RAV4 faces no trouble. The only soft spot in the cars performance is in high altitutdes while being fully loaded with cargo and passengers. Toyota, however, says the Adventure has enough mechanical power to pull up to 3,500 lbs. Another distinction of the RAV4 is that it can plough through snow with remarkable ease.

The Takeaway

To sum up, the 2018 RAV4 Adventure is a perfect vehicle for anyone who is looking for a high-performance compact SUV. Moreover, with roomy interiors for passengers and cargo, it is a true family car, too. In case you’re buying a pre-owned model, remember to perform a vehicle VIN check at ClearVIN.com. We arm vehicles buyers with the right information when they are in the used car market looking for a good deal. Do a Toyota VIN check with us and obtain the history report to make sure you’re buying the right vehicle. Get a sample report here. For more info on our services, call +1-844-268-5991 or write to us at info@clearvin.com.

4 Must-have Safety Features for Your Motorcycle

When it comes to designing motorcycles, rider safety is always a key concern. That is the reason all leading manufacturers are constantly embracing new technologies to equip their motorcycles with better safety features. Whether you are planning to buy a motorcycle or already own one, it is important to ensure that your ride has certain safety features. If you buying a used motorcycle, remember to perform a VIN check at ClearVin. A VIN check will give you necessary information about the motorcycle’s history and help you make an informed decision. Continuing the discussion, we list four must-have safety features for your motorcycle. Read on.

LED Lights

LED lights play a key role in increasing visibility on the road, especially in unfavorable conditions with low visibility. However, before installing LED lights on your motorcycle, make sure that the colors of the lights comply with the laws in your state. Manufacturers are now also making helmets with LED lights that improve visibility.

Anti-lock Braking System

Inspired by the advantages of Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) in cars and trucks, all leading motorcycle manufacturers have started offering anti-lock braking system in motorcycles too. ABS helps ensure controlled retardation of motorcycles on all types of surfaces and also helps the rider avoid overturning or collision if they hit the brakes in spontaneity.

Stability Control

While anti-lock braking system can be a boon to bring the motorcycle to a halt, but they may not be enough if your motorcycle is leaning at an angle just before you need to stop. This is when you need stability control. The feature plays a significant role by reining in the bike and providing the maximum braking force it can handle at any given angle of inclination.

Airbags

Airbags are not limited to cars anymore. Many motorcycle accidents involve the rider crashing into tall windshields found in cruisers, snow bikes, quad bikes, and other motorcycles. This is the reason manufacturers are equipping motorcycles with windshield airbags and also suggesting the riders buy airbag vests to reduce the impact in an accident.

Wrap Up

Safety is always a major concern when riding a motorcycle. If you are upgrading to a better motorcycle or buying your maiden ride, make sure the vehicle has all the safety features mentioned in this blog. If you are unable to find all the features within your budget, you can buy a preowned high performance motorcycle at an affordable price. However, before closing a deal, locate the motorcycle’s VIN, and perform a VIN check on ClearVin.com. Whether you are buying a Honda, Yamaha, or any other brand, simply register, enter your VIN, and get a detailed vehicle history to make an informed decision. To learn more about our VIN check services, fill out our contact form or call +1 (844) 268-5991.

Top 5 Affordable Trucks to Consider Buying Used

When looking to buy an affordable used truck, you need to consider a number of factors, such as damage type, estimated value, and cost of repairs, also check the VIN history of the options you shortlist. Running a truck VIN check provides a detailed history of a vehicle and helps you make an informed decision. If you have been unable to make up your mind regarding the model you should go for, you have come to the right place. To help, this blog brings to you a list of top five affordable options to consider when searching for a used truck. Let’s take a look.

Ford F-150

Equipped with a 3.5 liter 282hp V6 engine, the Ford F-150 is a recommendable option for your shortlist, when looking for affordable and fuel efficient used trucks. Loaded with advanced safety features and automatic transmission, the Ford F-150 is a great choice if you are searching for a wallet-friendly, all-in-one package.

Nissan Frontier

A top choice when it comes to affordability, the Nissan Frontier is equipped with a 2.5 liter 152 hp I4 engine. It comes with all standard safety features and driveline traction control. The truck is known for exceptional performance and reliability, which make it another great choice to have in your shortlist when when looking to buy a used truck.

Chevrolet Silverado

Chevrolet, a brand known to offer reliable and reasonably priced vehicles, is another name to consider when looking to buy a truck. The Chevrolet Silverado includes an impressive 4.3 liter 285hp EcoTec3 V6 engine, complemented by majestic exteriors, making it a must-have on your used truck bidding list.

2017 Toyota Tundra

The 2017 Toyota Tundra is another exceptional vehicle to have on your list of considerations. The engine specifications on this mammoth include a iForce 4.6 liter V8 with 310 hp. The truck has 18” steel wheels, that are an inch larger than the rest of the used trucks we have mentioned in this blog.

Honda Ridgeline

The Honda Ridgeline is propelled by an impressive 3.5 liter V6 engine pumping out 280 hp. This model also comes with 18” wheels, but unlike the Tundra – that has steel wheels – the wheels on the Ridgeline are made of aluminium. If you’re looking for a used truck that offers a great ride quality, the Ridgeline can be an ideal option.

Wrap Up

When choosing to buy a used truck, it is important to run a VIN check to gain access to and analyze a detailed history of the vehicle you plan to buy. ClearVin.com offers you an easy way to check a truck’s VIN history and brings you a step closer to finalizing a deal on a used truck aligned with your prerequisites. If you have any questions, call +1 (844) 268 5991 or write to us at info@clearvin.com.

11 Things You Can Know Through a VIN Check

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) check is indispensable when buying a used car. VIN is a unique, 17-character, alphanumeric code in vehicles. It’s just like the DNA in human beings. Discerning used cars buyers check VIN in order to find out the history of the vehicles they consider buying, and determine whether they are investing in a worthwhile option. Continuing on the subject, we give you a list of nearly a dozen things you can find out through a VIN check.

  1.  A VIN check tells you the year the car was purchased, and whether it was used for personal or business purposes.

  2. You come to know through VIN record whether the car has been involved in a collision recently or in the distant past. Sometimes the damage is not evident on a visual inspection of the vehicle. In such cases, VIN check is the only definitive way to know it.

  3. Closely related to the first point, a VIN check reveals the exact nature and extent of accident damage that the vehicle may have sustained.

  4. It also denotes on a VIN check whether the car has been a victim of natural calamities such as hurricane, which can cause extensive damage at times.

  5. Used car buyers can ascertain the last reported mileage with a quick VIN lookup. They can also determine whether there has been any tampering with the odometer.

  6. A vehicle’s VIN also tells whether the automaker has ever recalled it in the past and if yes, what was the type of recall.

  7. The number of owners the vehicle has changed hands over the years is also clear from VIN. This is important as you wouldn’t want to buy a 2012 car that has been driven by 10 people.

  8. The VIN tells what title the car had, whether it was a clean title, salvage, or rebuilt.

  9. If the vehicle in question has had any history of being stolen and exported, the VIN report will reflect that. This will save buyers from buying an illegal car.

  10. It provides information on the geographical location the vehicle was used in, e.g., state, province, USA, Europe, or Canada.

  11. Service history of the vehicle such as oil change, brake check, and tyre replacement is another vital piece of information that used car buyers can extract from VIN.

    Wrap Up

    VIN check is too important to be sidelined at the time of buying a used car. Make sure you look up the VIN of the car you are planning to buy, and obtain a VIN report before closing the deal. ClearVin.com helps you make an informed decision by providing accurate vehicle specifications and history, which has made us one of the most trusted sources for vehicle information. Look up VIN with us and do a Chevrolet or Ford VIN check any time. If you have any questions, simply call +1-844-268-5991 or write to us at info@clearvin.com.

Used Cars at Auctions: 2 of the Best Times to Go Bidding

It is common knowledge that there’s time for everything in life. No matter how well-intentioned you’re, if the timing is not right, plans can go kaput. Likewise, there are seasons that present unique advantages when buying used cars at auctions. Getting your timing right is paramount, just like inspecting the car and running a VIN check, if you wish to enhance your chances of getting the right car at the best price. Continuing the discussion, we present two of the most propitious times of the year you consider buying a used car on auction. Find out.

1. Tax Refund Season

Most people in the U.S. receive their federal tax refunds during the tax refund season i.e. between February and July. Hence, there’s an abundance of disposable cash. As a result, they are more likely to spend their money on buying used cars at auctions and things like that. However, prices of the used vehicles also tend to see a steep rise during the tax refund season. This is simply because when people have more liquid asset such as money, they’re more than likely to go for higher bids. Make sure you take that into consideration if you’re also looking for a used car at auctions at this time. Don’t make the mistake of drowning in bidding hysteria, and ending up bidding more than you intended to. Bid solely based on what you think the worth of the car is.

2. Pre-Holiday Season

After tax season comes to a close, the next opportune time to buy used cars at auctions is the period preceding Christmas and New Year. As is the custom everywhere, people indulge in holiday shopping during this time of the year. So, it is only natural for them to want to unload any unwanted vehicle they might have in order to rake in some extra cash for their shopping. So, obviously, you’ll find a larger and more extensive inventory of used cars in online auction sites during this time. This gives savvy buyers more choices of cars to choose from.

Closing Remarks

If you’re buying a used car online, don’t forget to do a VIN check. Whether it is a Chevrolet or an Audi VIN check, VIN check always matters. It is how buyers ascertain that they’re buying the right vehicle from the right seller. Online vehicle inspection service in Portland, Oregon, ClearVin is dedicated to furnishing authentic and reliable data on used vehicles. It is in partnership with NMVTIS and provides detailed vehicle history reports that one can bank on. If you got any question, feel free to contact us. Call +1 (844) 268 – 5991 or drop a mail @ info@clearvin.com. Just let us know how we can help you, and we’ll take it from there.

Tire Inspection Checklist when Buying a Used Car

Buying a used car has its fair share of advantages, the trade off is comparison-shopping can be a chore. There are many factors that come to bear when shopping for a used car, such as the cost, repair estimates, condition, history, aesthetics, and mileage. When it comes to buying a used car, there are lots of mistakes that buyers can avoid by conducting a physical inspection and running a vehicle VIN check. One of them is failure to inspect the tires, as they are a gateway to a lot of information about the car. Tires affect a car’s comfort, handling, braking and fuel economy. It is, therefore, important to inspect the tires when buying a used car.

1. Mismatched Tires

The first sign of trouble with tires is mismatching. Thoroughly inspect all tires to ensure safe handling, optimum control, and stability of the car. Check whether all the tires have the same thread pattern, if they are from a different manufacturer, and check characteristics such as size of the tires. Also, check the tire information placard on the driver’s door side to confirm the size of the tires.

2. Flat Repairs

If you’re buying a used vehicle, make sure to check its tire pressure before purchasing. Underinflated or worn tires are a major cause of car accidents. Look at the flat repairs, such as tire sidewall scuffing, cuts, cracking and bulges. Also establish whether or not you are getting a spare tire, toolkit and jack, and assess the condition as well.

3. Uneven Wear

Uneven wear can be determined by examining the width of a tire. This helps you ascertain how aggressively a car was driven and whether or not the maintenance schedule has been followed in the past. The major cause of uneven wear is a defective and misaligned suspension that can cause an eventual blowout and possibly, an accident. Differences in wear patterns between the rear and front tires can indicate that tires were not rotated routinely. Apart from running a vehicle VIN check, there is a wealth of information that you can learn by physically inspecting the vehicle.

4. Rubber Hardness

The hardness of a tire’s rubber depends on its age and usage. Look on the sidewall for a code starting with “DOT”. The last four-digits of the code represent the week and year of manufacture. For instance, “0817” would mean the eighth week of 2017. Tire manufacturers prior to 2000 used a three digit code signifying the year of manufacture.

Final Words

When to buy a used car, inspecting the condition of all tires is a significant part of assessing the condition of the car and ascertaining a fair price. Regular engine, brake and transmission maintenance are other key components to consider to grab the best deal. In addition to conducting a physical inspection, you can also run a vehicle VIN check to know more about a car’s history Get a detailed vehicle VIN history from ClearVin.com to buy a used car that represents value for your money and meets your needs. If you have any questions, call us +1 (844) 268 5991 or write to info@clearvin.com.

An Insight into BMW X1 2017: How Good is it on the Road?

Subcompact or “mini” SUVs have consistently strengthened their position in the American auto industry since their introduction. Being designed as sports utility vehicles, they offer a great driving experience on all types of terrain. If you are planning to buy a mini SUV, the BMW X1 should be one of the top contenders. If budget is a constraint, you can go for a pre-owned or salvage model. While at it, be sure to perform a VIN check on ClearVin.com, to find out all you need need to know to make an informed decision. Read on to get more information about the performance and safety of the BMW X1, which make it worthy of your love. Take a look.

Trim Levels

The BMW X1 is available in two trims – The X1 sDrive28i and the X1 xDrive28i, both powered by a 2.0-Liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The engine is paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission, sending power to the front wheels in the X1 sDrive28i and to all four wheels in the X1 xDrive28i. Both the trim levels can go from 0-60 mph within six seconds. The sDrive28i has an EPA estimated combined fuel economy of 26 mpg, and the xDrive28i is good for 25 mpg.

Performance

Though the BMW X1 comes with only one powertrain option, the turbocharged four-cylinders compensate enough to provide a quick acceleration and smooth drive. The car offers responsive steering, powerful brakes, and predictable body movements. You can update the performance with available upgrades such as an M Sport suspension system and performance run-flat tires.

Interior

The BMW X1 can comfortably seat five people, thanks to the ample leg room, and optional reclining and sliding rear seats, offering a relaxing time to the passengers. The interiors offer a class-apart craftsmanship with premium trimmings such as brushed aluminum, and synthetic leather seat upholstery. Standard infotainment features include a 6.5-inch display screen you can operate using a nob between the seats, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system, and Apple CarPlay.

Safety

Safety features on the BMW X1 include a standard rearview camera and rain-sensing windshield wipers. You can also opt for available safety upgrades including parking sensors, adaptive cruise control with stop and go functionality, collision mitigation braking, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, a head-up display, traffic sign information, and automatic high beams.

All Set to Buy a Pre-owned Car?

If you have decided on a pre-owned car of your choice, whether it’s a BMW X1 or any other model, the first thing you need to do is check its VIN. You can find the VIN either on the driver’s side door jam, or under the windshield on the driver’s side. Once you find the VIN, enter it here and get a VIN check. ClearVin.com is your trusted partner in providing accurate vehicle history reports through detailed VIN checks. Learn more about how VIN check works here. If you wish to talk to one of our representatives, fill out a contact form or call +1 (844) 268 – 5991.

Reviewing Top 4 Features Of The New Yamaha MT-07

The new Yamaha MT-07 went into production from 2014 and was released in the US by 2015. With its nude looks, this bike embodies the concept of keeping the engine open and compact, giving it a sporty and raw appearance. It is a lightweight vehicle and equipped with a powerful engine. If you are looking to buy used bikes for sale, you definitely need to consider this beauty and only finalize your decision after running a Yamaha motorcycle VIN check. This blog covers the four features of the Yamaha MT-07 that you need to know.

Compact Engine

The new Yamaha MT-07 is equipped with a 689cc inline, liquid-cooled twin cylinder and a DOHC engine, making sure that your ride is smooth and full of thrills. The concept of a crossplane, 270-degree crankshaft gives this model a unique character, and combines the low and mid-range torque to enhance the power output of this magnificent beast. With one of the best outputs of any Yamaha series, this is one bike that must be on your shortlist when browsing through auto auctions online.

New age Styling

With a refreshing new style to compliment the MT series. The MT-07 features intake scoops more aggressive than the rest of the MT family, stylish fuel tank cover, new angular headlight, and a layered tail design equipped with a neat LED taillight. The MT-07 and its bare looks makes it a popular option among many people who choose to buy from salvage auto auctions.

Balanced Frame Design

With a net weight of about 403 lb, this lightweight masterpiece definitely deserves a place in your shortlist when you visit used car auctions. High in strength and balance, the frame on the MT-07 provides an overall improved handling. The compact mainframe design gives this beauty a raw look and, therefore, makes it a unique buy. Another important aspect to note is that with a powerful engine and such low weight, the MT-07 aims at achieving high-performance.

Additional Features

The LCD instrument panel on the MT-07 is compact and convenient giving you access to a number of features, including the fuel gauge, clock, average and instant fuel consumption, and odometer. Other features included in the LCD panel are dual trip meters, a digital speedometer, gear position indicator, and a variety of indicator and warning lights. With such a high number of additional safety features, the MT-07 is gaining popularity among many people who wish to own a reliable, stylish, yet safe bike.

Final Words

The MT-07 has a unique and enhanced set of features that makes it a great option if you are looking to grab a good bike deal at used car auctions. When choosing auto auctions online, browse the web and shortlist a few reputable websites. The most important step you need to follow in order to make an informed decision is run a Yamaha motorcycle VIN check. Running a VIN check is crucial to know the exact condition and history of the motorcycle. Keep all these things in mind when you visit used car auctions online.

4 Things to Do Before Buying a Used Car

Not all that glitters is gold, with used cars being no exceptions. Although many of them may look beautiful, fresh and in mint condition, the true story might be something else. That is why it is essential to check the VIN number of the car you consider buying, to get an overview of its history and take a well-informed decision. In addition, there are other checks too that you need to carry out before buying a used car. Based on your assessment capabilities, you would either land a great bargain or end up with a money guzzler. To help ensure you put your money in the right place, we give you a list of the things to do when buying a used car.

1. Check the Exhaust

Don’t miss out on this aspect when inspecting the car. Thick smoke from a muffler is never a healthy sign. As you test drive the car, it must not produce unusually thick or dark smoke. If it does, check the engine oil. In some cases, however, a burnt out engine gasket may also lead to the problem. Also check for smell, if it smells like coolant, it is advisable to stay clear of that car.

2. Check Service Record

The service record of a car gives you a clear idea of the discipline with which it has been kept by the previous owner. It provides historic maintenance reports and the spare part and oil changes the car has had over the years. The oil change interval varies from approximately 3000 miles to 10000 miles. If you find the interval has been longer than the recommended threshold, you might be looking at a worn out engine.

3. Check Oil Leakage

Any type of oil leakage is a warning sign that you simply cannot afford to ignore. While sellers deploy every possible measure to make used cars look as good as new, oil leakages are always a dead giveaway. Park the car you are planning to buy on a clean floor and let it engine turn for a few minutes. After that turn the ignition off and wait for a few minutes. If you see any oil marks on the floor, the car may not be worth your time and money.

4. Check VIN Number

The final step in buying a used car is a VIN check. When you check the VIN number of a car, you safeguard your interest from issues such as tampered odometer, accident records, information about any theft in the past, and the authenticity of the parts in the car. A used car’s vehicle VIN number is the gateway to learning detailed information about a used car.

Wrap Up

If you are looking to buy a used car, we can help you find a deal that is worth your money. ClearVin lets you find out everything you need to know about the vehicle of your choice through its VIN number. We offer a safe and secure way to check a vehicle’s history in no time. View our sample report here. If you have any questions, call us at +1 (844) 268 5991, Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4 pm, or write to us at info@clearvin.com.