Compare used-car tools and free checks

Straight comparisons of the tools people reach for when buying a used car, what each is for, which are free, and where the honest gaps are.

Best car-buying Chrome extensions Shopper vs dealer tools, which are free, and what each tells you. Free Carfax alternatives What free and cheap history tools cover, and what they miss. Free VIN check: free vs paid What a VIN check returns for free, and what needs paying for.

New to used-car checks? Start with the 7-step buying checklist, or see the most reliable used cars.