What is Vehicle History Report?

A vehicle history report compiles a used vehicle's recorded past, drawing on data such as registration history, reported accidents, insurance claims, liens, odometer readings, and whether it was ever branded, stolen, or written off. In Canada, providers like CARFAX Canada are widely used, and some provinces require or strongly encourage sharing a history package with buyers. For dealers, presenting a clean report builds trust and supports required disclosures, while spotting red flags early prevents buying problem inventory at auction or on trade. A report can reveal a washed title, an undisclosed accident, or a lien that must be cleared before sale. Providing the report proactively, rather than waiting for the customer to ask, positions the dealership as transparent and helps satisfy provincial disclosure obligations on material facts.