Is carfax a reliable way to judge a car??? I know everybody is doing carfax reports now but is this really re

Question

I know every car dealership is doing carfax reports but is this really a reliable way to judge a car?

Answer 1

They do help you with some accident information about the car, but it won't necessarily tell you all the information and/or if that car has had many issues or info on maintenance. Many cars with major mechanical or electrical issues can come up with clean Carfax reports. Dealers just use Carfax to make a sale.

Answer 2

It is only one tool in evaluating a car. They won't have all the information on a car such as maintenance. Lately there have been a lot of complaints about Carfax. They don't always have the latest information on a car. They also do not show every accident it may have had. It is always prudent to have the vehicle checked over by a reputable shop for condition and previous damage evidence. Note to Firebird.....Not everyone knows what to look for and where to inspect a car for previous flood evidence or damage. There is also no reason to slam someone who isn't capable of doing so.

Answer 3

It's a total waste of time.  You need to evaluate the car's condition yourself.  Nobody wants to take responsibility for anything any more, and Carfax does a good job of taking $40 off you for that particular weakness.  But the truth is, there is not reliable data available.  The ABSENCE of data doesn't mean the car's not been wrecked, or under water.  But the truth is, you are standing right there.  You can look at the car and tell if it's been wrecked or under water.

So basically, just wake up and start acting like a human being.  You're the one buying a car.  Take responsibility for evaluating the car yourself.

Answer 4

no it does not tell all the info. about a car. for instance it would tell you if the car was totaled out and then rebuilt, but not tell you the car was in a bad collision but not totaled. the dealer should have no problem giving you the previous owners phone number to ask them about the car. if the dealer objects go elsewere. carfax does have a free site to let you know if the car was in a flood.