Salvage and rebuilt titles
A vehicle declared a total loss in Illinois receives a salvage certificate. After repairs and an inspection it can receive a rebuilt title, and the brand stays with the vehicle.
Winter wear
Salted roads cause rust on brake lines, subframes and suspension parts. Check where the car was registered and inspect it from underneath.
Junking certificates
A vehicle issued a junking certificate is meant to be dismantled or scrapped. A car being sold for road use with that history is a red flag.
How to check a used car in Illinois
- Compare the VIN on the windshield, the door jamb and the Illinois title. They must match.
- Decode the VIN above to confirm the year, make, model and engine match the listing.
- Run a VinCode report for title brands, accidents, total-loss events, odometer readings and owners in every state.
- Check open recalls for free on NHTSA and unrecovered theft on NICB VINCheck.
- Book an independent pre-purchase inspection before you pay.
Official Illinois titles and registrations are handled by the Illinois Secretary of State (Vehicle Services). VinCode is an independent vehicle history service and is not affiliated with any state agency.