Ohio VIN Check
How to Perform a VIN Lookup in Ohio?
VINs are 17-character codes that are unique to each car. These can illustrate a vehicle's historical record, including odometer checks, accidents experienced, fuel emissions, sales history, and title issues. Ohio VIN checks are done by searching the Vehicle Identification Number in the GoodCar VIN check search bar. This search tool will provide the vehicle's specifications and history. VIN checks may be used by buyers and vehicle owners looking to perform due diligence. It can be used then to reduce liability associated with buying faulty vehicles or those involved in criminal activities. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, Ohio has the ninth-highest vehicle crime rate in the United States. That should be a motivating factor in checking if a vehicle has gone through the legal processes of title transfer. VIN checks in Ohio may also be used to assess emissions compliance concerning state laws.
How to Find Your Car's VIN Number?
The Vehicle Identification Number is a unique code that can be used by interested parties to view relevant histories and specifications. It is usually located on the driver's side dashboard area. It can be seen by standing outside the vehicle and looking at the corner where the dash meets the windshield. Alternatively, looking at the door jamb, one may find it, as the VIN is usually printed on a sticker. It should be located under the hood near the engine as well.
Why Should I Run a OH VIN Check?
Vehicle History
A VIN check in Ohio is advisable for vehicle owners and other interested parties who want to know more about it. Vehicle records such as accident histories and fire or flood damage, are not easily accessed. GoodCar VIN-Check has allowed vehicle owners to access this information in one sitting, as they can browse aspects like title records, automobile specifications, title brands, and pricing. Not only can parties find out if the vehicle has previously been in an accident, but they can also view sales histories and potential title brands related to that accident.
Title Verification
Title verification is important when purchasing a vehicle. The title is the proof of ownership for a vehicle, so one should check if everything is in order before proceeding with any financial commitments. Under title records, vehicle buyers, and other parties may verify sales histories, mileage, and title brand checks. The Title Brands section helps with identifying any minor or major issues with the vehicle, such as fire damage, vandalism, undisclosed liens, odometer tampering and much more.
Accident History
Unfortunately, not all vehicle sellers are above board in their approaches. Some may try to sell previously crashed vehicles to unsuspecting buyers at a price far above what they are worth. The GoodCar Accidents section illustrates any collisions the car has been involved in. Ohio currently ranks sixth in fatal vehicle accidents in the country. Though this does not necessarily mean the vehicle has been involved in an accident, it does not hurt to review the Accidents section, Junk/Salvage Records, Title Records, Problem Checks or Total Loss Record sections to determine if the vehicle has been in a significant accident. This will provide much-needed leverage when negotiating pricing.
Mileage Verification
Vehicle buyers should assess the mileage records of a vehicle before purchase. At times, sellers may manipulate the odometer to make it seem like the vehicle has been used less than it has so they can drive up the price. Fortunately, the Title Brands section showcases odometer tampering to make it clear when an Odometer discrepancy has been identified.
Ohio Emissions Standards Compliance
Ohio requires vehicles registered in certain counties to pass emissions testing on a two-year basis. New state residents must also get their VINs inspected before obtaining registration. Vehicles registered in Geauga, Lorain, Medina, Portage, Summit, and Lake must pass an emissions test if they are in certain categories. That includes diesel vehicles weighing less than 10,000 pounds, gasoline vehicles weighing less than 10,000 pounds, and motor vehicles 25 years or newer. Any vehicles in Ohio registered outside of the qualified counties, though, do not have to pass smog checks to be registered or get renewals. If a vehicle is registered in a required smog-checking county but is permanently located outside of the state, in a place that does not require testing, then the owner can be eligible for exemption. The vehicle owner, though, has to submit a filled-out e-check exemption and Ohio registration to the state's Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
Recalls and Safety Standards
Interested parties may access information on GoodCar concerning NHTSA recalls within the NHTSA Recalls section. Within the Recalls section NHTSA and Manufacturer campaign numbers are available, as well as a defect description, potential defect consequences, and the recommended corrective action for the problem. There are more than two million unfixed recalls on the road in Ohio, making this a crucial consideration during purchase. Both standard and optional safety equipment and features are outlined in the Auto Specs section of a VIN lookup from GoodCar.
Theft Check
Title verification factors when a potential buyer would like to determine a vehicle's sales history and potential legal liability. In Ohio, this information is particularly relevant. In 2022, Ohio ranked seventh in vehicle thefts, with 29,913 incidences recorded. These numbers indicate a potential for vehicular criminal activity in the state and should motivate all buyers to assess if their vehicle has previously been involved in suspicious activity. Typically, receiving stolen property is categorized as a fourth-degree felony in Ohio if the property is a motor vehicle, drug, or firearm. It is punishable by six to eighteen months in jail and a fine of $5,000.
Previous Police or Taxi Vehicle Check
Police and taxi vehicles are used more heavily than most private-use cars and trucks and are expected to be more worn or damaged as a result. When purchasing a vehicle you want to know if it was ever used as a taxi or as a police vehicle. Vehicles that were once used commercially will have lower resale values and could be more worn or damaged as a result. With a GoodCar VIN check it's easy to see if the vehicle was ever used for these commercial purposes. Both ex-police and ex-taxi checks are included in the Problem Checks (also known as Title Brand) section of the GoodCar VIN report.
Natural Disaster-Related Reasons
Ohio also experiences its fair share of adverse weather and events, including tornadoes, flooding, and winter storms. For this reason, parties are advised to perform a VIN check to see if the vehicle has had flood or fire damage, as it should be accompanied by relevant documentation. It would also affect the final price of the vehicle due to the potential for issues later on.
Ohio Lemon Laws
and How They Relate to VIN Checks
Lemon laws in Ohio allow people to return their vehicles if they are defective so they can get a refund. However, in these cases, the customer has to provide the brand the chance to repair the issue. These laws apply to motor vehicles that have been purchased within the state. The car must also have a defect impairing overall use or safety. It should be brought to the manufacturer within the first year or 18,000 miles of ownership. For vehicle owners, it would be advisable to check the problem section of GoodCar to determine if there are any recorded defects. If the vehicle is still within the stated age and has a fault, it can be filed for repair or replacement. For defects that may cause severe injury or death, the customer may only need to provide the manufacturer with a single attempt before taking action.
The Title Transfer Process
When purchasing a vehicle from another party, it is the responsibility of the buyer to do the vehicle title transfer. The buyer must submit the car title certificate, a completed application for Certificate of Title to a Motor Vehicle, identification, odometer disclosure statement, out-of-state inspection form if relevant, and payment. For sellers, it is advisable not to complete the ownership assignment part on the title until the sale is completed. Title transfers are not expensive, as the state charges $15 for a new vehicle title. Individuals may pay $15 for a lien notation if financing is involved.
Ohio Insurance and Registration Requirements
Drivers in Ohio are mandated by law to have liability coverage as per the law. That is to protect passengers and other road users from accidents. According to state insurance regulations, all vehicle owners must have insurance with liability coverage limits of $25,000 in bodily injury, $25,000 for property damage, and $50,000 for total bodily injury for each accident. Proof of insurance is also required at traffic stops, inspection centers, and accident scenes.
Ohio Titling Requirements and Sales Tax
Upon purchase of a new motor vehicle from a dealership in Ohio, they usually handle the registration documentation. One would bring several items to the title office if it is being done manually. That includes an application for a certificate of title to a motor vehicle, sales tax on the purchasing price, payment for title fees, and the certificate of origin. Vehicle buyers pay a sales tax of 5.75% to the Clerk of the Court's Auto Title Division.
Ohio-Assigned VINs
Vehicles in Ohio must be registered by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, though they do not have state-assigned VINs. That is for new and used vehicles operating within the state. The buyer is also required to provide proof of insurance and car title during traffic stops.
Why Choose GoodCar for Ohio VIN Lookup?
GoodCar provides reliable information for interested parties seeking to perform vehicle due diligence. The tools provided, such as problem checks, specifications, title records, and sales information, give requesters everything they need to know about a vehicle. GoodCar does an exemplary job of compiling accurate information for all parties, allowing them to make informed decisions. GoodCar is also an approved NMVTIS data provider.
Ohio Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
about Ohio VIN Checks
-
Who Issues a Vehicle's VIN Number in Ohio?
It is provided by the manufacturers, though the information is sourced from the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
-
How do I verify a VIN number in Ohio?
In Ohio, one can get a VIN inspection from a licensed deputy registrar agency or a DMV location.
-
Is it safe to check a Ohio VIN online?
It should be perfectly safe to perform an Ohio VIN check online by utilizing GoodCar's VIN Lookup.
-
Do I need a VIN inspection in Ohio?
The state mandates that all vehicle owners have a VIN inspection, provided they are registered within the state.
-
Are Ohio VIN checks necessary for out-of-state vehicles brought into Ohio?
Yes, VIN checks are necessary for out-of-state vehicles that are brought into Ohio.
-
What does a Ohio VIN check reveal?
An Ohio VIN check will illustrate the vehicle history, including problems, ownership history, junk or salvage titles, NHTSA recalls, and accidents.
-
Is it safe to give out a VIN in Ohio?
It is very safe to give out a VIN number because it is publicly available on a vehicle. For that reason, GoodCar allows any party to view vehicle records of a given VIN.
-
Can you ask for the VIN from a Ohio seller?
Buyers may ask sellers for the VIN numbers to verify the claims given on the vehicles. That would provide the required history to ensure the vehicle is a good buy.