Just opening this old thread. As of Sept 16th, ICBC is offering a free VIN check.
Customers can enter the vehicle model year and vehicle identification number (VIN), which pulls up the current status of the vehicle.
The four designations are: salvage (provided to a car that has been written off due to a crash, but can be repaired/reconstructed); rebuilt (a salvage vehicle that has been rebuilt and passed inspection, in addition to homemade and specialty vehicles); altered (a vehicle that has been significantly modified after its manufacture); and normal (has not been rebuilt, salvaged or altered, but does not mean it has never been damaged nor is it a guarantee of good mechanical condition).
Keep in mind that this only covers the vehicle's status as registered in BC.
Customers can enter the vehicle model year and vehicle identification number (VIN), which pulls up the current status of the vehicle.
The four designations are: salvage (provided to a car that has been written off due to a crash, but can be repaired/reconstructed); rebuilt (a salvage vehicle that has been rebuilt and passed inspection, in addition to homemade and specialty vehicles); altered (a vehicle that has been significantly modified after its manufacture); and normal (has not been rebuilt, salvaged or altered, but does not mean it has never been damaged nor is it a guarantee of good mechanical condition).
Keep in mind that this only covers the vehicle's status as registered in BC.