How to Track Ownership of Cars

You can ensure that you are placing your money towards a suitable used vehicle by examining its ownership history. A history report may even uncover odometer fraud. As a customer, one of the most shocking discoveries is learning that you have invested thousands of dollars into an automobile that is beyond repair. Fortunately, such predicaments can be avoided through license plate number searches.

  • Click on the link in the Resources section to access the License Plate Search organization. Type in the license plate number of the desired vehicle at the home page. Select the state and press "Search."

  • Wait a few minutes while the United States Division of Motor Vehicle Services searches for a matching record, which will reveal the state in which the car is registered.

  • Submit an electronic payment using a debit or credit card to gain access to the automobile's vehicle identification number (VIN), ownership history, registered lien holder, make, model and license expiration date.

  • Use the VIN number to obtain additional history reports and to further minimize risks when deciding to purchase a vehicle. Select from established, reputable sites such as AutoCheck, CarFax and VinCheck. Compare each service's features to discover one that best meets your budget and needs.

  • Bring up any issues with the vehicle during the bargaining process to deduce whether or not a reduced offer is warranted.

  • Gather your vehicle reports and bring them with you to the inspection station. Contact a certified auto mechanic, who can help reduce your risk of accidents and damages with the help of the auto report.