How to check the history of a used car before finalizing the purchase in Quebec?

When buying a used car, appearance and a test drive are not enough. In Quebec, “checking the history” means three very concrete things:

1. confirming that there is no debt/lien on the vehicle you want to buy (RDPRM),
2. understanding the ownership history in Quebec (SAAQ),
3. checking accidents, claims, odometer readings, and recalls (CARFAX or equivalent).

Here is a simple, step-by-step method to complete your purchase with confidence.

Ask for the VIN and make sure it matches the vehicle

The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is found on the registration certificate or directly on the vehicle. It is the key that allows you to perform all checks: RDPRM, ownership history, history reports, recalls, etc.

Before even paying for a report, use a free VIN decoder to confirm that the year, make, and model match the vehicle you are looking at (this also helps prevent certain types of fraud).

Good practice: take a photo of the VIN directly on the vehicle (plate at the bottom of the windshield) and compare it with the documents.

Check the RDPRM for any debt/lien on the vehicle

In Quebec, this step is essential. The RDPRM is a public registry that lets you verify whether a vehicle is subject to a debt or registered right (for example, a lien related to financing). If a lien exists and is not settled, the risk is simple: the creditor may have the right to repossess the vehicle, even if you purchased it.

In practice, this is a quick and very useful check:

• Perform an RDPRM search using the VIN on the official website.
• Keep proof (PDF or screenshot) of the result for your records.
• If anything appears, ask for a clear explanation before going further.

Check the ownership history in Quebec (SAAQ)

The SAAQ offers a vehicle ownership history report that helps you understand the vehicle’s “life” in Quebec. It’s not just about the number of owners—this step also helps identify elements worth discussing before finalizing the purchase, such as a rebuilt vehicle, a vehicle that required mechanical inspection, or specific uses (e.g., commercial/taxi use in some cases).

The goal is not to find a perfect car, but to spot signals that justify additional questions:

• “Why so many transfers in a short period of time?”
• “What explains this note in the history?”
• “What proof of maintenance or repairs can you provide?”

Important: when you obtain the report, save it right away (PDF or print). It’s useful for your records and comparisons.

Get a CARFAX Canada report (accidents, odometer, recalls, etc.)

A CARFAX (or equivalent) report complements the previous steps very well, especially if the vehicle has been driven in more than one province or if you want an “event-based” overview: reported accidents/damage, recorded mileage (and possible inconsistencies), recalls, and available data from consulted databases.

What to remember: a history report is an excellent decision-making tool, but it does not replace an inspection. It’s one more piece of information to understand the vehicle and ask the right questions before signing.

Tip: CARFAX notes that some dealerships display the report directly in their listings.

Have the vehicle inspected (even if the history looks “clean”)

Even with a reassuring history, an inspection remains essential. Some mechanical issues do not appear in records or reports: brake wear, worn-out tires, tired suspension, leaks, unusual noises, components nearing repair, etc.

An inspection and a thorough test drive help confirm the vehicle’s actual condition and avoid unexpected expenses after purchase. If a seller refuses a reasonable inspection or test drive, it is generally a red flag.

Quick checklist: what to check, and in what order

If you want a simple and effective sequence:

• VIN: confirm it matches the vehicle.
• RDPRM: verify there is no debt/lien.
• SAAQ: review the ownership history in Quebec.
• CARFAX: accidents/odometer/recalls (based on available data).
• Inspection + test drive: confirm the actual condition before finalizing.

Want to buy a used vehicle with confidence? At Auto Durocher, we help you verify essential information (VIN, RDPRM, history) and provide a CARFAX report for full transparency. Contact our team before finalizing your choice.