A wrong line on your Carfax report can be a pain in your throat. It can not only sink a sale, but cost you thousands of bucks, and leave you fighting a never-ending battle to clear your name. Yes, you read that right!
After all, they show a car’s service records, accident history, mileage, title changes, and so much more, so buyers definitely rely on them to decide the history-based value of a vehicle. And when you put wrong information in your report, it can mislead them.
So let’s look at how you can fix information on your Carfax report for a smooth experience!
Steps to Correct Errors On Your Carfax Report
According to research, roughly 2.14 million vehicles have odometer rollback, and news stories show drivers losing time or value only because of mistaken entries. That means errors do happen.
And here are the steps to fix them:
Step #1. Get the Report & Read it Thoroughly
Order a fresh Carfax report from a reputable site, like Cheap Carfax, and read every report section carefully. This involves:
- Title brands (rebuilt, salvage)
- Accidents/functional damage
- Ownership records
- Service history
- Odometer readings
After checking, save the PDF or simply take screenshots, so you have a copy of the incorrect wording.
Step #2. Verify Your Carfax Report Information
Verification comes first before you move forward with the report correction process. So before you dispute any errors, make sure you verify what’s actually wrong. For that:
- Compare the report with your own records
- Look at previous maintenance records, repair receipts, and service logos
- Check the odometer reading of your car at different points
- And compare these with what’s mentioned in the report
If there’s an accident record, you should also gather documents like police reports or insurance claims. It’s good to have evidence by your side.
This step will help you find out if the error is real and supports your car while you file the dispute.
Step #3. Obtain the Carfax Data Research Request Form
To fix incorrect information on your report, you should use a particular form. For this purpose, you need to use the Carfax Data Research Request form. Remember, you won’t be able to fill out the form online.
That’s why, print it out and complete it carefully by hand using black or blue ink. This two-page document is your initial point to dispute any inaccuracies.
Step #4. Complete Your Data Research Request Form
Once you have your form in your hands, read it thoroughly and fill it correctly. Write simple and clear information about the error. Mention what’s exactly wrong with your Carfax reports. For instance, if the mileage is incorrect, mention the right mileage.
Similarly, if your accident is reported by mistake, note the accurate details and then attach copies of insurance reports or relevant police reports. Be precise and thorough. Attach every document that supports your facts.
Note that only the current owner is allowed to request any kind of correction, and he is the only one who should sign the form. Completing the form efficiently will guarantee that your dispute is taken seriously.
Step #5. Submit Your Form By Mail or Fax
Done with the form completion? Now it’s time to send it to the Carfax right away. You can submit the form by mail or fax. Before that, make sure you include all the attached evidence and pages of the form.
To fax the form, use this number: (800) 292-8634. However, if you prefer mail, send the documents properly to CARFAX, Inc., Attention: Subscriber Research, 5860 Trinity Parkway, Suite 600, Centreville, VA 20120
Step #6. Be Patient After the Submission
Once you submit your form, Carfax will start its review procedure. They will examine your evidence against the information in their system. Remember, this process can take many days and even weeks, so be patient.
To verify your claim, Carfax may even contact the current data providers. So keep monitoring your report for regular updates. If your error is verified, Carfax will simply correct the report. And if not, they will possibly request additional documents.
Keeping follow-up communications and the record of your submission can help if they are delaying the process. The review process is designed to be fair and thorough, so it takes some time.
Tips for a Successful Dispute Process
If you want to increase the chances of your successful correction of the report, make sure you follow some extra tips. These include:
- Double-Check Documentation: Always ensure that your evidence is accurate and complete.
- Be Concise and Clear: Use simple language that shows the error to correct information accurately.
- Follow Submission Guidelines: Use the accurate mailing address or fax number as provided by Carfax.
- Use Rival Reports: Present information from other vehicle history reports if you want to support your claim (if required).
- Track Your Request: Note any reference numbers they provided and set reminders to follow up with the platform.
Conclusion
And there you have it! There’s no doubt the errors on your Carfax vehicle reports can be frustrating, and even expensive sometimes. But the good news is that they are not permanent and can be fixed by contacting the Carfax support team.
However, if you are simply planning to check your vehicle history, it doesn’t need to be a headache. Cheap Carfax can offer authentic reports at a fraction of the retail price, so everyone can access reliable data without overpaying.
