DIY & Maintenance2 min read
How to Use Your AutoLens Report
Buying a used vehicle is a big decision — and the AutoLens report you just accessed can help you avoid regret and shop smarter. Here's how to make the most of your report.
Step 1: Start With the Overview
At the top of each report, you’ll find:
- A reliability snapshot for your exact year, make, model, and trim
- The most common reported problems, and how likely they are to occur
- A simple summary of repair cost, time, and difficulty
This gives you a quick gut-check on whether this vehicle is likely to be a headache — or a smart deal.
Step 2: Explore Common Issues in Detail
Each issue section contains:
- A description of the problem (e.g., “oil leaks around 90k miles”)
- When it's likely to occur (by mileage or age)
- Repair difficulty (DIY vs mechanic)
- Links to real tutorials, Reddit posts, and repair walkthroughs
Tip: Use these links to cross-reference what a mechanic might charge you for the repair.
🛠 Step 3: Plan Ahead or Shop Smarter
Your report can help you:
- Negotiate better prices (e.g., “This issue is likely — can you knock off $500?”)
- Avoid lemons — especially trims with known engine issues
- Budget for common wear items
Bonus: Save and Share
Click the “Download PDF” button in your dashboard to save your report for offline access, or email it to a friend or mechanic.
Don’t Have an Account Yet?
You can browse supported vehicles, get instant access to reports, and start buying smarter — all with no subscription.