When you're buying a used vehicle, it's natural to wonder what the history of the vehicle is. Has it been in an accident, or did it come from another province? A vehicle history report could be the vital piece of information you need to provide these answers and help you feel reassured about buying the vehicle.

What is a vehicle history report?

A vehicle history report is a comprehensive document that provides detailed background information about a used vehicle. Inside a vehicle history report, you can find accident history, odometer readings, owner history and any manufacturer recalls. We recommend having a vehicle history report when purchasing a used vehicle as it provides the necessary background information to ensure the buyer’s purchase aligns with their expectations and requirements. It also helps provide context so buyers can understand whether the asking price is in line with the condition of the vehicle.

What is the difference between the vehicle history reports?

BCAA Auto Marketplace was created to make buying and selling a vehicle in BC a better experience. To make this a reality, we have partnered with CARFAX, the leading provider of vehicle history reports in Canada to give you the tools you need to showcase your vehicle.

There are two vehicle history reports that are available to purchase on BCAA Auto Marketplace, the CARFAX Canada Vehicle History Report (VHR) and the CARFAX Canada Vehicle History Report + Lien Check Report (VHR + Lien). Both vehicle history reports include data on the vehicle’s accident history, title status, odometer readings, ownership history, manufacturer recalls and maintenance service history. Critically, they both also include information directly from ICBC. Where they differ is that the CARFAX Canada Vehicle History Report + Lien Check Report has an additional section that outlines any outstanding loans attached to the vehicle. Obtaining a lien check is important when purchasing a used vehicle, as you don’t want to be responsible for any outstanding payments that have yet to be made on the vehicle. We recommend only selecting the vehicle history report without the lien check if you have already been provided the lien information.

How can I purchase a vehicle history report?

BCAA Auto Marketplace users can purchase a vehicle history report while listing their vehicle for sale or on the ‘Your Listings’ page after listing a vehicle. Alternatively, sellers can purchase the Ultimate Package and receive a CARFAX Canada Vehicle History Report + Lien Check Report, six weeks of enhanced listing, a QR code for sale sign, and seller ID verification (optional). Please note in our seller packages, a CARFAX Canada Vehicle History Report is not included in the Essentials package but is available to purchase separately.

If you are a buyer that wants to purchase a CARFAX Canada Vehicle History Report because the vehicle listing does not have an uploaded vehicle history report, there will be a button to purchase a CARFAX Canada Vehicle History Report on the vehicle details page. We strongly recommend purchasing a CARFAX Vehicle History Report + Lien Check before purchasing any used vehicle.

If you would like to have a comprehensive look of the vehicle’s health and performance, you can also book a Pre-Purchase Inspection at one of our BCAA Auto Service Centres. The Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection offers a comprehensive 199-point mechanical and system performance examination. Once completed, our report will rate the vehicle through a stoplight legend and shows an overall assessment. Please note that maintenance service history will only show up for services done at a dealership.

Visit BCAA Auto Marketplace

^{The foregoing information is for general informational purposes only. Readers are cautioned against making any decisions based on this information alone and any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk.}