Iowa VIN Lookup

Purchasing used cars offers several advantages, such as lower upfront costs, reduced depreciation, and a wider selection of models. However, it also comes with potential drawbacks, including limited or expired warranties, unknown vehicle histories, and the risk of inheriting a car with recurrent mechanical issues. 341 used car dealerships are licensed to operate in Iowa, with the average cost of used cars costing up to $23,062.

Iowa’s Lemon law primarily protects consumers purchasing new automobiles. Generally, Iowa lemon law does not apply to used vehicles. However, the law may apply to used cars if a manufacturer’s written warranty still covers the vehicle and the issue occurs within two years of delivery. It also applies if the vehicle has fewer than 24,000 miles.

Given the limited protections available to used car buyers under Iowa’s Lemon Law, the responsibility lies squarely on persons purchasing used cars to ensure they do their due diligence to avoid ending up with faulty vehicles. One such measure is to conduct a VIN lookup. VIN checks are essential in assessing a vehicle's value, history, and condition, which offers used car buyers additional layers of assurance.

Why Performing an Iowa VIN Check Is Important?

A Vehicle Identification Number, VIN, is a unique 17-character alphanumeric code assigned to every motor vehicle, serving as its fingerprint. The VIN is a comprehensive identifier containing detailed information such as the make, model, year, country of origin, manufacturing plant, engine type, and much more. Essentially, VINs play a crucial role in tracking a vehicle’s history, and conducting VIN checks can help buyers assess the car’s condition, verify its authenticity, and avoid hidden issues. Performing VIN checks can reveal the following:

• Auto Fraud Prevention: Recent data shows that about 496 auto fraud cases are reported annually in Iowa. The state ranks 37th, with an auto fraud rate of 157.2 fraud cases per 100,000. VIN checks are essential in preventing auto fraud by aiding prospective buyers to spot discrepancies in a vehicle's documentation, such as unreported accidents or inaccurate ownership histories.
• Auto Theft History: VIN checks help you avoid acquiring stolen vehicles. Iowa has a car theft rate of 135 thefts per 100,000 residents. VIN checks can help identify whether the car has been reported stolen, protecting buyers from legal complications and outright loss of their investments.
• Odometer Verification: Odometer fraud involves tampering with the odometer reading to make the car appear less used than it is. According to the NHTSA, over 450,000 vehicles are sold annually with tampered odometer readings. VIN checks help buyers verify the accuracy of the car’s mileage by comparing historical odometer data with data on the car’s documentation.
• Registration and Title Verification: Iowa’s law, specifically Section 321.18 of the Iowa Code, requires all vehicles driven on Iowa’s roads to be registered according to state laws. Failure to register your vehicle within the stipulated period may result in penalties of fines and impoundment of the vehicle. Performing VIN checks confirms the ownership history of the vehicle, ensuring the seller has legitimate ownership and authority to sell the car.
• Title Brands: Title brands are the official labels on a vehicle’s title that disclose its history, such as whether it has been declared flood-damaged, salvaged, rebuilt, or classified as a lemon. In addition, title brands offer detailed insight into the severity of any past damage or repairs made. Performing VIN checks may reveal these title brands, helping buyers assess the condition of the vehicle before purchasing it.

How To Perform an Iowa VIN Check

Persons looking to purchase cars in Iowa may utilize state and federal resources to perform VIN checks to determine the credibility of their intended purchase. These resources include:

Iowa DOT - Research Vehicle History Tool:

The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) provides access to the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System’s Research Vehicle History tool. This tool provides information on the current state and title of a vehicle, brand history, odometer readings, and vehicle total loss history through third-party platforms.

The NHTSA VIN Decoder:

The NHTSA VIN Decoder allows users to perform VIN checks using a full or partial VIN. It provides specifications such as make, model, year of manufacture, safety features, and any recall history associated with the VIN.

NICB VINCheck Lookup:

The NICB VINCheck Lookup service helps users identify potential theft or fraud associated with a vehicle. It checks if the vehicle has been reported stolen, has a salvage history, or has been declared a total loss or rebuilt after an accident.

Free vs. Paid VIN Check Services in Iowa

Government agencies and nonprofit organizations offer free VIN lookup services. These free resources are a good starting point for initial checks to help verify that the vehicle has not been involved in any legal or safety issues. However, they tend to offer basic information on a vehicle’s history.

Therefore, persons seeking a more comprehensive and detailed report may use third-party services available through companies like GoodCar, Carmart, and iSeeCar. These services typically aggregate information from multiple sources to provide detailed insight into a vehicle’s history. Paid VIN check providers offer detailed vehicle history reports, including:

• Ownership history
• Vehicle specifications
• Registration history
• Inspection records
• Title brands
• Service and maintenance records
• Odometer verification
• Accident history
• Lien history
• Rebuild records
• Sales history
• Safety defects and recalls
• NHTSA crash test ratings
• Theft reports, and much more!

What Used Car Scams Are Common in Iowa?

Used car scams severely impact buyers by concealing a vehicle’s history, leaving unsuspecting buyers with costly repairs, legal consequences, investment loss, or even stolen vehicles. For instance, an Iowa man paid $10,000 for a vehicle, believing it had only 66,000 miles. During registration, he discovered that the car had 185,000 miles, leaving him heartbroken over the deception. Such scams make it vital for used car buyers to be vigilant and conduct thorough checks before finalizing the purchase. Some commonly used car scams in Iowa include:

Odometer Rollbacks:

The vehicle’s mileage is intentionally altered to display a lower reading than the true mileage, deceiving buyers about the wear and tear on the car.

Title Washing:

Fraudsters manipulate or forge title documents to erase a vehicle's previous damage or salvage status, making a problematic car appear clean on paper.

Curbstoning:

Dishonest individuals operate without proper licenses to sell vehicles from street corners or temporary lots, without documentation, and often at ridiculously lower prices.

VIN Cloning:

Copying the VIN from a legally registered car and placing it on a stolen, salvaged, or severely damaged car.

"As-Is" Sales:

Sellers offer the vehicles “as-is” without disclosing underlying issues, leaving buyers to shoulder repair costs for problems not mentioned during sales.

Fake Documentation Scams:

Fraudsters present falsified paperwork, such as forged titles or maintenance records, to misrepresent the vehicle’s history and convince buyers of its authenticity.

Unfortunately, these scams threaten the trust in the used car market, tarnish the image of reputable sellers, and leave unsuspecting buyers with financial burdens, costly repairs, and legal issues. Therefore, to protect yourself from used car scams, adhere to the following:

• Research the car you intend to buy. Know the going price in your area.
• Beware of deals that sound too good to be true.
• Verify all documents.
• Get an independent mechanic to inspect the vehicle.
• Consider using premium services like GoodCar to disclose detailed information on the car.
• Buy from licensed dealers or trusted individuals with positive reviews.

How Do I Check the Status of My Vehicle's Title in Iowa?

Checking the status of your vehicle in Iowa ensures that its legal history is accurate and free from any unexpected liabilities. If you're unsure whether your vehicle title is clear or carries any brands (such as salvage or rebuilt), checking the title status can confirm its condition. It also helps verify the accuracy of lienholder details and can prevent disputes with insurers, ultimately improving the resale value of your vehicle.

In Iowa, all vehicle title checks are conducted by mail. To request a title check, you will need your VIN, title number, driver’s license, and license plate number. Complete the Request for Motor Vehicle Records form and include a copy of your driver’s license. There is a $5 fee per vehicle title request. Mail the completed form and payment to:

Systems and Administration Bureau
Iowa Department of Transportation
PO Box 9204
Des Moines, Iowa 50306

How To Register a Brand New Car in Iowa

Titling and registering your new car in Iowa completes the legal steps to prove ownership and ensure the vehicle operates legally on public roads. Titling involves obtaining an official certificate of title from the Iowa DOT that verifies the car is legally yours. Registering the vehicle involves obtaining valid registration and license plates for the vehicle. This process ensures that the car is documented and complies with state laws.

The Iowa DOT is responsible for titling and registering all vehicles in the state. It collaborates with local County Treasurer offices that handle the day-to-day paperwork and processing fees. Generally, Iowa law requires you to title and register your new car within 30 days of purchase at any County Treasurer’s office.

When you buy a new car from a licensed dealership in the state, the dealer usually takes care of titling and registration. They submit all necessary paperwork to the local County Treasurer’s office to complete the process. In addition, they provide you with a temporary registration or permit, which allows you to drive legally while the permanent registration is processed.

What Are the Requirements for Registering a New Car in Iowa?

Getting your car registered is a crucial step in owning it. This process helps keep track of every vehicle on the road, with over 3.7 million cars registered in the state annually. Registering your new car ensures your car follows the state’s rules while ensuring safety on the roads. Getting your new automobile registered in Iowa is as follows:

• Complete the Application for Certificate of Title and/or Registration form
• Bill of Sale or purchase agreement
• The assigned Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO)
• Odometer Statement
• Damage Disclosure form (required if brand new vehicle has over 1,000 miles)
• Proof of identity and residency
• Proof of insurance
• The registration fees

The cost to register your car every year is based on its value, type, and weight. Generally, the registration fee is 1% of the car’s value plus 40 cents for every 100 pounds the car weighs. Additionally, there is a title fee of $25. You may renew your vehicle registration online or at your County Treasurer’s office. Renewal fees vary per county, usually between $60 and $70.

Does Iowa Mandate Vehicle Inspection?

Iowa does not mandate routine annual safety or emissions inspections for most passenger vehicles. However, certain vehicles, including commercial trucks or those that have been rebuilt or imported from another jurisdiction, may be subject to additional safety or emissions testing as required by local regulations when applying for new titles.

Although Iowa does not require annual inspections, VIN and odometer verifications are still a crucial part of the vehicle inspection process. Verifying the VIN ensures the vehicle's identity is accurately recorded, helping prevent title fraud. Odometer verification is also essential to detect discrepancies or tampering that could misrepresent the vehicle’s usage.

How Do I Get a Replacement VIN in Iowa?

A replacement VIN establishes ownership of a vehicle, protecting the owner from legal complications in the future where the original VIN has had issues. Generally, replacement VINs are required in Iowa under the following circumstances:

• Damaged or Missing VIN: Vandalism, accidents, or corrosion can render the VIN plate unreadable or cause it to fall out.
• Altered VIN: If there is evidence of tampering or unauthorized changes, a new VIN is necessary to restore the vehicle’s proper identity.
• Homemade Vehicles: Vehicles that are custom-built or assembled from various parts may not have a manufacturer-assigned VIN.
• Rebuilt or Salvaged Vehicles: Cars rebuilt from salvage often require a new VIN to accurately reflect their history and ensure they meet safety standards.

To get replacement VINs in Iowa, visit your local DOT office to pick up the Application for a Replacement VIN. Accurately complete the form with your vehicle’s details and the reason for requesting a VIN replacement. Arrange for an inspection, usually conducted by law enforcement officers who verify that the vehicle matches the documentation and confirm the condition of the VIN. Submit your application, supporting documents, and the fees in person or by mail to your local DOT office.

Does Iowa Require a VIN Inspection for Out-of-State Vehicles?

No. Iowa does not require a VIN inspection for out-of-state vehicles. Generally, the state does not mandate any vehicle inspection for registration purposes. However, where there are discrepancies between the vehicle’s physical VIN and the records provided, the DOT and County Treasurer may mandate a VIN verification to ensure the VIN matches the title and registration documents.