How reliable are the vehicle reports from kfzauskunft24.de?

Very reliable. We bring together information from over 1,000 verified data sources in more than 45 countries – including registration authorities, inspection bodies, insurance and damage databases. From this foundation we build a traceable report that attributes every detail to its source.

What is a VIN and where do I find it?

The VIN (vehicle identification number) is a 17-character code that uniquely identifies every vehicle worldwide. You'll find it on the vehicle registration certificate (Part I, field E), at the bottom of the windscreen, and stamped in the engine bay or on the B-pillar.

How quickly will I receive my report?

Your report is usually ready around 40 seconds after payment and can be accessed online immediately – no waiting, no callback needed.

What information does a vehicle report contain?

Depending on data availability: mileage history and signs of odometer tampering, documented accidents and damage including estimated repair costs, theft and security status, technical data and equipment, plus a market-based value assessment.

What happens if no data is available for a vehicle?

If we find no usable records for a VIN, you get your money back under our refund policy. You only pay for reports that provide real information value.

Can I check a vehicle without a VIN?

Yes. As an alternative to the VIN, you can in many cases use the official number plate. Both allow us to trace the vehicle's history.

Spot an accident car: uncover hidden crash damage

Why undisclosed accidents get so expensive

A neatly repaired minor scrape is no big deal. It gets critical with undisclosed structural or airbag damage: it lowers the value considerably and can become dangerous in the next crash. That is exactly why some sellers hide the history – and touch it up with fresh paint.

But the repair leaves traces on paint, panel gaps and fasteners. Look systematically and you'll spot most reworked areas.

Six signs of a repaired crash

Work through these points during the viewing:

Uneven panel gaps

Differently wide gaps at doors, bonnet or boot lid point to straightened or replaced parts.

Paint differences

Deviating shades, dull patches, orange peel or overspray on rubber seals reveal a respray.

Paint thickness

A coating-thickness gauge shows thicker layers on resprayed areas – a clear hint of filler and repair.

Suspicious bolts

Bare, marked or over-painted bolts on wings, slam panel or doors show that work has already been done there.

Welds & seams

Irregular spot welds, sealant in unusual places or deformed seams in the engine bay and boot are repair traces.

New parts on an old car

A factory-fresh headlight, grille or wing on an otherwise aged car raises the question: why was it replaced?

Visual inspection plus data check

The best safeguard is the combination: a thorough on-site inspection and a vehicle report that bundles the available data – recalls, documented damage and the key technical figures. So you don't go by gut feeling alone, but enter the negotiation with solid information.

How to protect yourself when buying

Inspect in daylight and dry weather – fresh paint stands out more that way.
Check the car on a lift for underbody, welding and straightening marks.
For larger purchases, bring in an independent appraiser or a workshop.
Check the VIN against a vehicle report before you sign.

Check the VIN before you buy

Enter the vehicle identification number and get the report: we bundle the available vehicle, recall and history data from verified sources. Together with your visual inspection you have a clear picture – before money changes hands.

Vehicle data & recalls in one place
Documented history where available
Solid data from verified sources
Result in seconds

Check VIN now

Frequently asked questions

Does a repaired accident car have to be a bad buy?

No. A professionally repaired minor scrape is uncritical and often a price advantage. The problem is undisclosed structural or airbag damage – which is why seller honesty and a good inspection matter.

What's the clearest sign of an accident car?

Uneven panel gaps and paint differences. A coating-thickness gauge and a look at the bolts in the engine bay add further clarity.

Can I prove an accident afterwards?

Visible repair traces, a lift inspection and documented damage from the history help. An appraiser can professionally assess structural and airbag repairs.

This guide is for general information. Not every crash damage can be detected by visual inspection alone.