Peters Auto Mall Blog
Buying a used car is a smart way to save money—but only if you know exactly what you’re getting. A vehicle history report reveals the story behind the car’s shine: its mileage, ownership record, title status, and any past accidents or repairs. At Peters Auto Mall, we make it easy for shoppers across High Point, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Asheboro, Lexington, and Thomasville to verify a vehicle’s background before they buy.
Step 1: Locate the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
Every car has a unique 17-digit VIN—think of it as the vehicle’s fingerprint. You can find it:
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On the driver’s side dashboard near the windshield
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Inside the driver’s door jamb
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On the title or registration paperwork
At Peters Auto Mall, each online listing clearly displays the VIN so customers can easily verify a vehicle’s details.
Step 2: Run a Vehicle History Report
Once you have the VIN, you can use it to pull a complete report from trusted sources like:
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CARFAX – the industry standard for accidents, service, and ownership records
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AutoCheck – known for detailed ownership and auction history
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NMVTIS (National Motor Vehicle Title Information System) – checks for title brands, flood, and salvage history
Pro Tip: Peters Auto Mall includes a FREE CARFAX report on nearly every vehicle—so you can shop with confidence knowing the details are transparent upfront.
Step 3: Know What to Look For
When reviewing a vehicle history report, pay close attention to:
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Title Type: Clean, rebuilt, salvage, or flood title
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Accident Records: Cosmetic or structural damage history
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Odometer Readings: Look for gaps or inconsistencies
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Ownership History: One-owner vehicles typically show better care
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Service Records: Regular maintenance increases long-term reliability
If something looks unclear, our sales team can help interpret the report and explain what it means for you as a buyer.
Step 4: Verify the Title Before You Buy
Always confirm the title status before finalizing a purchase. Ask to see the physical title or verify through the North Carolina DMV. Peters Auto Mall verifies every title in-house, ensuring every vehicle on our lot is lien-free and accurately represented.
Step 5: Schedule a Pre-Purchase Inspection
Even with a clean history, a professional inspection adds peace of mind. We encourage all buyers—from Greensboro to Lexington—to bring their own mechanic or schedule an inspection with our team on-site before completing the purchase.
Why Triad Drivers Trust Peters Auto Mall
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Free CARFAX on nearly all vehicles
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Clean titles verified through the North Carolina DMV
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In-house financing for all credit types
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No-pressure buying experience
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Trusted by Triad families for over 30 years
North Main: 3037 N. Main St., High Point, NC — (336) 791-4664
South Main: 2857 S. Main St., High Point, NC — (336) 781-2892
Explore current inventory and free CARFAX reports anytime at PetersAutoMall.com.
Bottom Line
Before you buy any used car, take a few minutes to review its VIN, title, and accident history. It’s the easiest way to avoid surprises and buy with confidence. At Peters Auto Mall, we handle the hard work for you—verified titles, free CARFAX reports, and transparent listings—so you can focus on finding the vehicle that fits your life and budget.




