When shopping for used cars, drivers should research their options to avoid purchasing models that are overpriced or have major problems. Often times, previously owned models may have been in accidents or received repairs that could dramatically influence their value. Looking into a model’s history is a great way to find out whether it has had extensive damage and what work has been done over the years. It will also let drivers know if any recall issues have been addressed.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports all recalls for consumers, so car shoppers can visit the website and look up the particular model and year of the car they’re considering to find out about past and current recalls. A recent report from CARFAX found many vehicles are being sold online without having their recalls addressed first. In 2012, the vehicle history reporting company found that 2.1 million models that had open recalls were up for sale online. This is an improvement from the 2.7 million vehicles in 2011, but the large number still makes it extremely important for drivers to do their homework before purchasing a car.

Every CARFAX report contains information pertaining to recalls that list specific VIN numbers, making it easy for drivers to find out if the car they want is or has ever been under recall. Every model on the New Jersey Public Auto Auction lot is CARFAX certified, so drivers won’t have to work hard to get the history of any of the various makes and models available at NJ State Auto.