Why You Need a Vehicle History Report Before Buying a Used Car

Buying a used car in Kenya? We get it. A new car price tag is about as welcoming as rush hour traffic, so the pre-owned route makes sense! But before you fall for that glossy exterior and low mileage, think again. 

A vehicle might look fine on the surface, but what lurks under that hood (and in its past) could turn your dream buy into a nightmare.

Now, you might think, “Surely, I can just ask the seller about its history, right?” Well, yes…but only if you trust every random seller out there! As we know, not everyone is 100% honest. 

Enter the vehicle history report. This humble document holds the power to save you from a lifetime of regret and expenses. 

What is a Vehicle History Report?

In simple terms, a vehicle history report is like a car’s life story. It includes important details like previous owners, accident history, maintenance records, and even if the car has been tampered with or altered. 

Think of it as the car’s “CV.” Just like you’d want to know a potential employee’s background, you need to know what that car has been through before trusting it with your time, money, and safety.

At Peach Cars, we provide a comprehensive vehicle history report as part of our 288-point inspection. It’s all about ensuring you get transparency, so you drive off in a car that feels right for you and your wallet.

Why Bother with a Vehicle History Report?

If you’re still on the fence, here are some solid reasons why getting a vehicle history report is the smartest move you can make:

1. Avoid Cars with Accident Histories

Imagine buying a car, and two weeks in, things start rattling. Soon, you’re paying for repairs every month. Why? Because the car’s previous owner “forgot” to mention it was involved in a major accident. 

A report of the vehicle’s history can save you from this fate by showing if the car has any accident history. While minor bumps may not be a big deal, major accidents are red flags. 

Cars involved in serious accidents often suffer from internal damages that can be costly down the road.

2. Spot Odometer Tampering

In Kenya, some crafty sellers might mess with the odometer to show fewer kilometres driven. Why? A car with low mileage is often valued higher. 

But a vehicle history report helps you catch this trick by cross-checking mileage records from different times. If you see a sudden drop in mileage, run—don’t walk—from that deal!

3. Know if it’s a Stolen Car (Yes, Really!)

Nobody wants a stolen car. Apart from the obvious legal risks, there’s the chance you could lose your hard-earned money if authorities seize it. 

Vehicle history reports show whether the car has been reported as stolen, so you don’t accidentally become an accomplice in a crime.

4. Verify Ownership Records

Did you know that some people sell cars they don’t legally own? It sounds wild, but it happens. A history of the car can help trace ownership records to make sure the seller is the legitimate owner of the vehicle. You wouldn’t want to buy a car only to have the actual owner show up claiming it, right?

5. Stay Clear of Outstanding Loans

A lot of car owners in Kenya finance their cars through loans. You want to know if the vehicle you are buying has an outstanding loan. The only way to know this is through a vehicle history report. 

Skipping this step may lead to you buying a car only to find out later that it’s still under finance and could be repossessed. Worse still, you might end up paying for the car twice—once to the seller and, potentially, again to the lender. 

6. Identify Recall Alerts

Manufacturers sometimes issue recalls on certain vehicles to fix specific issues, usually at no cost to the owner. However, not all previous owners act on these recalls, especially if they plan to sell the car. A vehicle history report will show if the car has any unresolved recalls that could impact safety.

And if there is one single most important thing you should never compromise on is your safety. Imagine buying a car only to discover later that it has a manufacturing flaw that makes it prone to brake failure. Not a fun surprise. The report helps you catch these red flags before they become your problem.

How to Interpret a Vehicle History Report Like a Pro

Reading a vehicle history report can feel overwhelming, but with a few key tips, you’ll be decoding it like a seasoned detective:

• Check Ownership Records: First, look at the number of previous owners. A car that has switched owners frequently might have issues the sellers aren’t telling you about. 
• Pay Attention to the Accident and Repair Records: Skim the report for any mention of accidents, major repairs, or replacements. If the report says “major damage” or “frame damage,” ask yourself if you’re ready to take on a car that may need more than a quick fix. 
• Verify the Maintenance History: A well-maintained car is worth its weight in gold. If a car has been regularly serviced, that’s a good sign. Look out for any “gaps” in the maintenance history, which could mean the car wasn’t always cared for properly.

The Peach Cars Advantage

When you choose Peach Cars, you’re not just buying a car; you’re investing in peace of mind. Our process includes a complimentary 288-point inspection with a full vehicle history report. 

We go beyond the basics with a thorough mechanical check to ensure you know exactly what you’re getting. Whether you’re buying or selling, we make sure it’s a quick, transparent, and hassle-free experience. Feeling confident already? Check out our collection of well-inspected, quality cars to kickstart your journey. Ready to make your move? Contact us today at 0709 726900!