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CCC's Vehicle History Report Available Via the Internet

13 August 1998

CCC's Vehicle History Report Available Via the Internet
       http://www.vhronline.com Gives Instant Access to Used Vehicle Histories

    CHICAGO, Aug. 13 -- Who would argue?  Buying a used car can
be an unpleasant, even intimidating, experience.  You peruse rows of shiny,
seemingly flawless vehicles on a used car lot as you are assured each and
every one was pampered and meticulously cared for.  In reality, many perfect-
looking automobiles have been severely damaged or even stolen, and are for
sale on lots and through classifieds all over the country.
    To help consumers uncover the potentially shady pasts of these vehicles,
CCC Information Services today announced that its Vehicle History Report (VHR)
service is now available via the Internet, making it even easier for consumers
to minimize the risks associated with purchasing a used car.
    By visiting the Vehicle History Report Web site -- http://www.vhronline.com --
you can, in a matter of moments, obtain comprehensive information on a
vehicle's history from a variety of databases.  CCC's Vehicle History Report
provides verifiable, detailed information on a vehicle's title and
registration, plus potential theft, fire, flood and total loss history, giving
consumers a clearer picture of conditions that could lower a vehicle's value
or compromise safety.
    Over two million vehicles are declared total losses each year.  Many of
these vehicles are bought as salvage, then rebuilt and returned to the used
car market.  "Consumers have become increasingly aware of the risks involved
in buying a used car and our Vehicle History Report is a powerful tool that
helps them better protect themselves and make more informed used car
purchases," noted Lou Gaz, Automotive Services operations manager at CCC.
    To use CCC's Vehicle History Report, access the Web site at
http://www.vhronline.com and simply type in the vehicle identification number (VIN)
of the selected vehicle.  By comparing the VIN with a number of automotive
databases, the Vehicle History Report instantly alerts you to a vehicle's
past.  VHR also detects possible odometer fraud and identifies "gray market"
vehicles -- vehicles manufactured in foreign countries that may not meet U.S.
environmental and safety standards.
    The cost of the on-line service is $19.95 plus tax, where applicable.
Consumers can use their American Express, Discover, MasterCard or Visa through
a secure link from the VHR web site.  They can also access CCC's Vehicle
History Report by calling 800-633-7834, extension 5.  A VHR representative
will ask for the vehicle's VIN and charge the purchase to a major credit
card.
    CCC Information Services, headquartered in Chicago, Ill., is the
automotive claims industry's leading supplier of advanced software and
communications systems.  Its value-added, technology-based products and
services increase efficiency and facilitate communication among more than
13,000 collision repair facilities, 350 insurance companies, 4,000 automobile
dealerships and a range of business partners.  For more information about CCC
Information Services Inc., contact Peter Duckler at HLB Communications,
312-649-0371.