Revolutionizing Used Car Shopping: The AutoCheck Score

Simplifying Vehicle History Reports

Schaumburg, Ill., September 17, 2007 – Navigating through the myriad details in a vehicle history report can be overwhelming. Questions like "Should I buy a car that was previously a rental?" or "How do I know the car isn’t a lemon?" often arise. Experian Automotive, a division of Experian® Inc., has addressed these concerns by launching the AutoCheck Score, now accessible to consumers via AutoCheck.

The Impact of the AutoCheck Score

Just as credit scores transformed credit reporting, the AutoCheck Score is revolutionizing the used car market. This score condenses extensive vehicle history data into a simple, numeric value, empowering consumers with the confidence and clarity needed to understand a vehicle's past.

Consumer Confidence Boost

Adam Goldfein, host of the nationally syndicated radio show AutoScoop, highlights the significance of this tool: "Previously, consumers had to interpret complex vehicle history reports on their own. The AutoCheck Score simplifies this, providing a clear, understandable summary of what truly matters."

How the AutoCheck Score Works

The AutoCheck Score ranges from 1 to 100, summarizing key aspects of a vehicle's history. It is accompanied by the AutoCheck Score RangeSM, which compares the score to other vehicles of similar age and class, aiding consumers in their evaluation process.

Scott Waldron, president of Experian Automotive, notes, "Our research shows that 80% of consumers feel more confident in their purchase decisions with the AutoCheck Score." This tool responds directly to consumer needs, enabling quick and easy understanding of a vehicle's past and facilitating more confident purchase decisions.

The Science Behind the Score

The AutoCheck Score is derived from sophisticated statistical analysis, similar to credit scoring. Experian's expertise in data collection, interpretation, and analysis ensures that the score is both accurate and user-friendly.

Key Factors Considered

Researchers developed the AutoCheck Score algorithm by analyzing a random sample of vehicle histories across the U.S. They identified critical factors impacting vehicle histories and weighted them accordingly. Primary factors include:

• Reported accidents or frame damage
• Mileage and odometer history
• Number of previous owners
• Title brands such as Flood, Junk, and Salvage

Additional factors include:

• Emissions history
• Repossession or theft records
• Previous use as a government vehicle, police car, or taxi
• Lease history

By considering these elements, the AutoCheck Score provides a comprehensive understanding of a vehicle's history, eliminating the need to focus on any single event.

About AutoScoop

AutoScoop is a nationally syndicated radio show that equips listeners with the knowledge needed for smart car-buying decisions. Hosted by Adam Goldfein, who has over 12 years of experience in the automotive industry, the show broadcasts every weekend to 30 radio affiliates. For more information, visit AutoScoop.

About Experian Automotive

Experian Automotive, a unit of Experian® Group Ltd. (LSE:EXPN), offers information solutions to manufacturers, dealers, finance and insurance companies, and consumers. Their National Vehicle Database houses over 500 million vehicles, meeting the industry's demand for integrated information sources. Experian's technology supports top automotive websites like eBay Motors, Yahoo! Autos, CarsDirect.com, CarMax.com, and NADAguides.com. For more information, visit Experian Automotive.

Contact Information

Erick Laseca Burson-Marsteller 312-596-3404 erick.laseca@bm.com

Interesting Stats

• 80% of consumers reported increased confidence in their purchase decisions with the AutoCheck Score. (Source: Experian Automotive)
• The National Vehicle Database contains over 500 million vehicles, making it one of the most comprehensive vehicle databases in the world. (Source: Experian Automotive)

By leveraging the AutoCheck Score, consumers can navigate the used car market with greater ease and assurance, making informed decisions based on a clear understanding of a vehicle's history.