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Karolis Bareckas

You just can’t grab the first car you found on a marketplace and expect to drive for years without trouble. Technically, it’s possible, but you have to be among the lucky ones.

Just how lucky? That’s what we’re here to find out.

According to our data geeks, finding a car with a clean history can be quite a challenge.

 We analyzed a lot of VIN check data from a bunch of European countries to learn the statistics: how common are clean cars? Which makers are safer? And more.

Check any VIN to learn a vehicle's history!

Afraid of buying a wreck?

A clean car is one that doesn't have any recorded incidents in its 

. Such a vehicle will hold its price better and serve longer. Let’s dive into the details of what a clean car is.

A car in our study can be called clean if:

The period between mileage records is no longer than 3 years

A vehicle with a clean history report must not:

Have been used as a taxi, ride-sharing, or car-sharing vehicle

Have junk, salvage, flood, fire, or lemon title

While every driver wants to buy a car that hasn’t been involved in any accident or been clocked, in reality, the used vehicle market is full of cars whose histories are far from clean.

Want a car with a clean history? French and Italian brands may be your answer

Italian and French automakers can sigh in relief as they dominate the list of clean cars in Europe. 

Alfa Romeo takes the crown with 65.1% of vehicles checked on carVertical having clean histories.

 Peugeot (62.9%), Renault (61.3%), Citroen (61.2%), and Fiat (59.4%) are close behind.

Peugeot, Renault, Citroen, and Fiat produce economy-class vehicles that may be less susceptible to fraud. If you’re some shady dealer, you don’t want to risk clocking the mileage or hiding damages of some cheap hatchback, as your profit will be low. That’s why scammers target more expensive car brands to earn more money.

So, why on earth does Alfa Romeo have the highest share of cars with clean histories? Shouldn't it be at the other end of the spectrum?

While Alfas are considered sporty cars, they don’t attract the same crowd as BMW, Porsche, and Subaru

, whose owners may often indulge in more aggressive driving. Estimates say that, in 2023, Alfa Romeo delivered around 70,000 cars. That’s not a lot, as most manufacturers count their vehicles by hundreds of thousands or even millions of units. This explains why Alfa Romeo attracts scammers less. They just don’t want to clock the mileage of a car that may have a high price but fewer interested buyers.

If you’re some shady dealer, you don’t want to risk clocking the mileage or hiding damages of a cheap hatchback, as your profit will be low. Scammers tend to target more expensive car brands to earn more money.

What if we narrow down our scope and look at the situation in different countries? Apparently, the dominance of French and Italian car manufacturers is visible across the continent. Fiat has the most vehicles with clean histories in Czechia (54.1%) and Finland (91.1%). Renault – in France (74.1%). Citroen – in Hungary (54.6%), Croatia (72%), and Latvia (67.1%). Peugeot – in Lithuania (64.1%), Poland (50.3%), and Ukraine (64.1%). Alfa Romeo – in Slovakia (62.8%).

depending on the country, other car brands may also have a clean history

. In Spain, Lexus has the highest share of vehicles with clean history records – 88.6% of all VIN checks on carVertical. In the UK – Honda (72.1%), in Italy – Toyota (95.2%), in Portugal – Toyota (91.5%), in Romania – Lexus (60.5%), and in Serbia – Toyota (79.6%).

Finding a premium car without defects may be difficult

 finding a car with a clean history requires time and effort, some brands are particularly risky

. Among all vehicles checked by carVertical in the research, BMW models had the worst results – only 23.2% had a clean history. BMW has the lowest share of vehicles with clean histories in multiple countries, including Spain (8.9%), France (21%), Hungary (13.5%), Croatia (15.7%), Latvia (15.7%), Poland (6.9%), Portugal (3.9%), Slovakia (4.2%), Romania (8%), Serbia (22.3%), and Ukraine (11.2%).

Next on the list were Porsche (32.5%) and Volvo (40.8%).

In most countries included in the study, premium cars were significantly less likely to have a clean history, meaning that fans of these brands should be especially cautious when shopping for a used model.

Many people dream of owning a premium-class car, but they don’t always fully assess the risks involved in buying one. Since these vehicles are more expensive, dishonest sellers are more likely to falsify their mileage or hide defects.

To purchase a premium-class car at the lowest possible price, buyers often overlook its history

 or fail to check what kind of damage it may have sustained in the past. Later, as various defects begin to surface, you may face unpleasant surprises, and significant repairs can drive the ownership expenses to unpredictable costs.

How to find a vehicle with a clean history

So, obviously, you want a car with a clean history, the one that will be worth every penny and won’t cause you any trouble in the long run. Be it an economy-class Dacia, a premium Lexus, or a BMW. But where should you start?

 in the ad, so anyone interested in that model may check its history. However, some owners may forget to do that, so don’t hesitate to contact them and ask. 

If the seller isn’t willing to share the VIN or claims that their car is flawless and there’s no point in getting a history report, it’s a high chance that you’ve met a shady seller.

2. Check a car’s history on carVertical

 hop on carVertical and check the car’s history

. Evaluate any damage the vehicle has suffered, mileage, ownership changes, safety recall records, and its historical photos.

However, brace yourself – finding a vehicle with a clean history may not be easy. But this doesn’t mean you should completely ignore cars with minor issues. What is more, you can use this information to negotiate a lower price.

Avoid costly problems by checking a vehicle's history. Get a report instantly!

Check your VIN

If the history report is clean or at least doesn’t contain any information that may suggest that a vehicle is a lemon, go for a test drive. 

Don’t forget to inspect the car for any rust, leaks, scratches, and dents. Check if all the electronics work properly.

 It’s best to try the car at different speeds and on various terrains. Listen to any noises from the engine bay or suspension you may not like.

If you still feel that the car you checked might be the one, do the final step and bring it to an authorized service center for inspection. If the vehicle’s history is unclean and it has past damages or other 

, use this information in a report to discuss the car’s condition with a mechanic.

They can evaluate the car’s state and give their opinion of how certain damages were repaired.

 Additionally, they will hook up diagnostic tools so you can learn more about the car.

Finding a used vehicle shouldn’t be a gamble. By employing carVertical’s history report and following the buying process meticulously, you may find a reliable ride. However, if you buy the first car you see without actually digging into its history, the excitement of getting a new vehicle may quickly fade due to persistent mechanical failures or electrical faults.

The carVertical study analyzed vehicle history reports purchased by the company’s customers from January 2024 to December 2024. Cars with clean history reports were counted by brand, converted into percentages, and ranked accordingly.

Research: A used car with a clean history – mission (im)possible?

Renata Liubertaitė

Many cars that have been submerged in water end up in the hands of buyers who have no idea about their past. While some signs of flood damage are obvious, others can be subtle or cleverly disguised by dishonest sellers, leading to long-term problems.

Fortunately, there are ways you can spot signs of flood damage, including thorough visual inspection and checking the car’s history on 

Reveal them all! Just enter a VIN code and click the button:

Used cars have dark secrets

How can you tell if a car has flood damage?

Knowing how to spot a flood-damaged car is crucial, whether you’re just browsing or about to buy. Many used car sellers try to hide these essential details, but there are some telltale signs that a car has been underwater.

 Faulty electrical systems are often the first sign of water damage. Make sure to test the entertainment system, power windows and mirrors, door locks, and lights to make sure they all work.

 Nearly all electrical systems are connected to the fuse box, typically found under the dashboard, in the boot, or in the engine compartment. The fuse box should be dry, and the fuse connections should be clean and free of corrosion.

 Car bodies are prone to rust from excessive moisture, especially if the car has been exposed to salt water. Carefully inspect the bodywork, paying extra attention to the undercarriage, door trims, badges, and plastic components. Even small bubbles in the paint can signal the presence of rust hidden beneath the paint.

 Ensure the interior is completely dry, especially footwells, seats, and other fabric areas. Soft materials tend to remain wet for a long time, so feel them, particularly in the lower areas of the car. Your hand should come away dry after touching these areas.

 Get inside the car, shut all doors, and take a moment to smell the interior. Damp seats and carpeting often leave behind an unpleasant, mouldy odour that’s difficult to mask, even with air fresheners.

 As floodwater recedes, crannies and crevices in a vehicle often trap dirt and debris that’s hard to reach, especially inside the car. Check for dirt between interior plastic parts and under the seats. Dirty (but not dusty) areas may be a sign that the vehicle has been flooded.

 It’s always a good idea to have an independent mechanic inspect the car. Not only can they spot potential mechanical issues, but they may also detect additional signs of flood damage.

Some severely flood-damaged cars can be sold for up to 50% less. Used car salesmen buy them for next to nothing, resell them for a relatively low price, and still make a hefty profit. Always remember that a suspiciously low price usually has a reason behind it.

Get a carVertical report to learn about possible exposure to floods and other damage

You can learn whether a vehicle could have been located in a flooded area by getting a carVertical vehicle history report. This can make you more aware of such a possibility and prompt you to inspect specific car areas. Moreover, our reports can highlight records from other 

Pay attention to the impact score, which indicates how severe the event was based on data from the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System (GDACS).

You can also use information in other sections of the carVertical report to learn about water damage. For example, look at historical photos and check for fogged-up headlights, a suspiciously clean engine compartment, or water level signs inside the car.

Another option is to check for water-related title brands (e.g., Flood) in the “

” section (for cars that are in or imported from the US).

 that you can typically find stamped on the bottom of the windshield, driver’s side door pillar, front end of the frame, or vehicle’s documents.

Water is a great conductor and a key component for the formation of rust, which spells trouble when it gets into the wrong parts of a car. When submerged, water can seep into every crevice, causing 

 Although electrical connectors and control units are typically sealed, they aren’t waterproof, allowing water to penetrate the most sensitive areas of the vehicle.

Drying out a flooded car takes days, and even then, there 

may be irreversible damage, such as oxidised wires, mouldy seats, or a sagging headliner.

 Water trapped in tight spaces can remain inaccessible for months, leading to 

electrical problems, recurring mould, and unpleasant odours.

Ideally, a flooded car should be completely dismantled, with all electrical wires disconnected and the interior taken apart, only to be put back together once everything fully dries out. Unfortunately, used car sellers often don’t invest that much time and effort, choosing to sell damaged cars instead.

Note that there’s always a huge risk to buy a flood-damaged car – even if it seems all the damage is fixed, there’s always the possibility that certain parts will deteriorate and break down over time.

Whether a flood-damaged car can be repaired – and whether it’s practical or cost-effective – depends on the severity of the damage and the specific systems affected.

What to inspect in a car to spot potential water damage

If the flooding was minor, such as water rising only to the floorboards, the damage may be limited to carpeting, upholstery, and some electrical components, which are not that complicated to clean or repair.

Water reaching the dashboard or higher is a bigger issue already. It can significantly affect electrical systems, engine components, and the transmission. These types of damage require more extensive repairs and could be very costly.

If the car was completely submerged, the water may have damaged critical systems such as the engine, transmission, and electronic control units (ECUs), which might require a complete overhaul or replacement. In addition to the fact that the cost of these repairs may sometimes exceed the vehicle's value, it’s also important to consider the vehicle’s long-term reliability when deciding whether to repair it.

In most cases, no. While you might take a risk on a flooded antique or rare car for restoration purposes, choosing a flooded car as your daily driver is likely a bad idea. Although the lower price may seem tempting, you could end up spending more than expected to ensure the car is safe and reliable.

However, if you come across a flooded car and still want to buy it, negotiate the price as much as possible to ensure you’re getting a decent deal.

Which car parts are the most vulnerable to flood damage?

What damage does a flood do to a car?

At what level of water is a car considered flooded and ruined?

Can flood damage be repaired properly?

Are flood vehicles worth buying?

How to detect signs of flood damage in cars

Evaldas Zabitis

Buying a used car can be a great way to save money, but it’s important to know exactly what you're getting. Some used cars could be ex-taxis, police vehicles, or former rentals – cars that typically have more wear and tear and are worth less.

Sellers don’t always disclose this information, which can make it difficult for buyers to make informed decisions. That’s why it’s crucial to know how to spot a former taxi, ensuring you invest in a reliable vehicle that won’t surprise you with costly repairs later on.

Don't risk your safety - check it with carVertical first

Looks can be deceiving!

Why buying an ex-taxi car can be a bad idea

Taxis in service go through a pretty unique set of driving conditions that differ a lot from regular personal vehicles.

They often operate in 12 hour shifts, with their engines running for longer periods, sometimes idling for hours. This constant use doesn't allow the engine to rest, which naturally leads to greater wear and tear over time.

Possible issues with purchasing an ex-taxi car:

: Taxis accumulate mileage very quickly, often driving three to four times more than typical cars within the same age range.

: Idling for longer periods stops the engine from reaching optimal (higher) temperatures, which causes carbon buildup in the fuel system and combustion chambers.

: Frequent stop-and-go driving in urban environments strains the suspension system and clutch, leading to premature wear.

: Insurance companies often classify ex-taxis as higher-risk vehicles, which results in increased premiums for you.

: While taxis are usually well maintained, it’s impossible for routine maintenance to address all the potential issues arising from intensive use.

Ex-taxis can be worth the buy. They’re often cheaper than other cars, but it’s crucial to know you’re buying an ex-taxi and to be aware of the risks.

You can check if a car was used as a taxi with carVertical

 are an extremely valuable tool for used car buyers. carVertical can provide extensive reports that reveal a car's past usage, including whether it was used as a taxi, police vehicle, or rental car.

We can tell you a lot more, however, including damage records, ownership changes, past photos, and mileage history.

Verifying the mileage is absolutely critical when buying a used car, because mileage can be a strong indicator of the vehicle’s condition. As a matter of fact, high-mileage vehicles (such as ex-taxis), may be more likely to have a fake mileage to appear more appealing to buyers.

, mileage fraud affects a significant number of used cars, making a history report even more essential.

6 signs a car may have been a taxi in the past

Taxis often operate in 12 hour shifts, with their engines running for longer periods, sometimes idling for hours. This constant use doesn't allow the engine to rest, which naturally leads to greater wear and tear over time.

Certain models are more likely to be ex-taxis than others. These include the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Toyota Prius, Toyota Corolla, Škoda Octavia, or Škoda Superb. Yet there are more signs the car you’re looking at was a taxi once.

Taxi companies often follow strict maintenance schedules to keep their vehicles on the road as much as possible. If a car's service records seem more frequent than usual, it could be a sign it had a past life as a taxi. Regular servicing can definitely be positive, but excessive maintenance may indicate heavy usage.

 for its age is a clear red flag. Taxis accumulate kilometers quickly due to constant operation – up to 3-4x higher mileage than regular cars.

Be wary of vehicles with mileage that doesn’t seem to match up with their condition or age – remember that odometer rollbacks are a common practice among unscrupulous sellers. For more information on detecting mileage fraud, you can read this guide.

Intensive use from being used as a taxi leads to noticeable extra wear on interior components. Check carefully for signs such as:

Worn steering wheel, gear stick, and pedals

Worn seats, especially rear seats (which usually show significantly less wear than front seats)

Drill holes or any adhesive/glue residue on the dashboard where taxi meters and other equipment may have been installed.

Wear on the rear door trims and back of the front seats from frequent passenger use.

Many taxis are bought or painted in distinctive colors, such as yellow, to be easily identifiable. If a car has an unusual color, it could have been repainted to hide its taxi history. Carefully inspect the paintwork for any inconsistencies, especially around the door frames. Be cautious of cars with vinyl wrap as well – sellers sometimes use this cost-effective method to change a car's appearance.

Check the condition of the paint around rear door handles and entry points, as these areas may have more scratches or worn paint due to constant use. Additionally, look for darker spots or marks on the roof where a taxi sign might have been mounted, or on the doors where stickers are often applied

Before selling their cars, taxi companies often deep-clean the interiors, sometimes removing seats and carpets for pressure washing. If you notice any moisture, dampness, or a strong cleaning agent smell inside the car, it might be a freshly cleaned ex-taxi.

Ex-taxis can be worth the buy. They’re often cheaper than other cars, but it’s crucial to know you’re buying an ex-taxi and be aware of the risks.

These cars are much more likely to need repairs due to accelerated wear and tear. Furthermore, the resale value of ex-taxis is generally lower, which could affect you in the future.

If you're still considering an ex-taxi, a 

 is an important step to help you assess its condition thoroughly. However, in the majority of cases, it might be wiser to invest a bit more in a vehicle without a taxi service history to guarantee reliability and give greater peace of mind.

How do you check if a car is an ex-taxi?

Can you insure an ex-taxi car?

Are ridesharing vehicles considered taxis as well?

Would an ex-taxi have more issues?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How to identify a taxi when looking for a used car

Car mileage is an important indicator that can give you valuable insights about a vehicle’s condition. For this, it's critical to know how to break down the data you’re looking at in the most sensible way.

carVertical is committed to uncovering the truth behind a car's mileage, helping you quickly discover possible signs of odometer fraud and other issues.

Read on to understand what’s going on behind the mileage curves, and how they can help you make a decision when buying a used car.

Enter a VIN code to learn more about any vehicle!

Need help buying a used car?

total distance a vehicle has traveled throughout its lifespan and is commonly measured in kilometers or miles.

It’s recorded by the car's odometer, which has numbers visible on the dashboard, typically located around the speedometer area. This data is usually recorded on occasions such as registration, during regular maintenance or repairs, vehicle inspections, and when changing ownership.

A vehicle’s condition is significantly influenced by the distance it has traveled over time. Here’s how mileage affects different aspects of a car:

 Typically, a higher mileage indicates that important parts such as the engine, transmission, and suspension have experienced increased usage, potentially resulting in greater wear and tear.

 Mileage is crucial for a car's maintenance schedule, like oil changes every 5,000–10,000 km and brake replacements every 30,000–70,000 km. If you neglect mileage-based maintenance, it can lead to reduced performance, costly repairs, safety risks, and a shorter lifespan for your vehicle.

 Well-maintained vehicles with lower mileage are usually sold for higher prices due to the assumption they have undergone less wear and tear over time.

just having a lower mileage doesn’t always mean a better car.

Buying and selling tips

Research: A used car with a clean history – mission (im)possible?

How to detect signs of flood damage in cars

How to identify a taxi when looking for a used car

What the mileage can tell you about a car

7 common used car problems you should be aware of

7 common mistakes used car buyers make

What can you learn about a used vehicle from the ad?

What is a VIN number?

How much does an accident devalue a car?