Bad credit buyers can now turn to Carfax mobile and get a vehicle history report on the go with both Apple and Android mobile apps before applying for an auto loan
Helping car shoppers with less than perfect credit

In a move that definitely helps consumers with bad credit searching for online car loans, those shopping for used cars now have the ability to pull up a vehicle history report on a majority of the smart phones sold in the U.S.

At Auto Credit Express we understand the significance of this move because for over twenty we've been helping people with questionable credit locate those new car dealers that can give them their best chances for approved car loans. And since most of these consumers end up picking out a used car, it's important that they know the real condition of the vehicle they're considering – with the vehicle history report providing the first clue in determining any negative historical information.

Those vehicle history reports

One of the keys to a successful car loan, especially for buyers that have experienced past credit problems, is being able to trust that the car they're purchasing is exactly what it's represented to be.

If it's a used car, the most cost-effective place to begin is a vehicle history report.

It was a year and a half ago that Carfax, the largest provider of vehicle history reports, announced that it had launched a free mobile app for the iPhone (search 'Carfax Reports' or click this link: http://itunes.com/apps/CARFAXInc/carfax-reports/) and the first-ever mobile site for vehicle history report information at http://m.carfax.com.

A half year later Carfax unveiled an Android version - also a free download (on Google Play - search 'Carfax Reports' or click this link: http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.carfax.consumer).

Report costs

Just like the web-based version, the cost for an app-based report is $39.99 for one, $49.99 for five or $54.99 an unlimited number of reports by license plate or 5 reports by VIN during any 30 day period.

"Carfax is tailor-made to meet the demands of car buyers today," said Larry Gamache, communications director at Carfax. "Especially when buying from a private seller, getting a Carfax Report is a critical step that now can be taken on-the-fly. We've designed our mobile site and app to give smartphone users the simplest and most direct access to Carfax information about their potential purchase. Confidence and peace of mind is only a screen tap away."

Just the first step

While it's a good start and a vehicle history report should be run on any used car you're seriously considering, these reports doesn't always contain the complete information on a vehicle.

Once the choice is narrowed down, there's one more thing that needs to be done.

A vehicle inspection

Once it's been determined the car has a clean vehicle history, ask the seller if can be taken to have it inspected – both for mechanical as well as structural issues. Then take it to an ASE certified master mechanic as well as a body specialist to have these services performed.

Vehicle inspections are offered by both individual mechanics and companies. The cost is usually between $100 and $200, but its money well spent, as a vehicle with hidden damage not contained in a vehicle history report can mean both a lower resale value as well as thousands of dollars in repair bills down the road.

If the seller refuses, walk away from the deal.

The Bottom Line

Vehicle history reports can be a valuable tool in deciding which used car to buy, as long as this is followed up by an appropriate physical inspection. By creating an app for both iPhone and Android smartphones, the people at Carfax have made the process even more convenient.

One more convenience: at no charge to applicants Auto Credit Express matches those that have experienced car credit difficulties with select new car dealers that can offer them their best chances at approved car loans.

So if you're ready to reestablish your auto credit, you can begin now by filling out our online car loan application.