Understanding Your Report

Your overall grade is a single number from 0 to 5 that summarizes the vehicle's condition. It uses the NAAA (National Auto Auction Association) scale, the same system used by Manheim, ADESA, and wholesale auto auctions across North America.

The grade is computed from component scores, weighted by exterior (40%), interior (25%), tires (8%), and accident indicators (27%).

Below the overall grade, five component scores break down the vehicle's condition by area: Exterior, Interior, Tires, Wheels, and Glass. Each is graded on the same 0-5 scale.

A finding count below each score shows how many issues were detected in that area. Click any component score in your report to jump to the detailed findings for that zone.

Not Assessed means no photos were submitted for that zone. It's not a failing grade. Submit more photos covering that area to get a score.

A "finding" is a specific condition issue Dr. Vin's AI detected in your photos. Rust, scratches, dents, paint oxidation, tire wear, seat damage, and more.

The Photos and Findings section offers two views. By Finding groups all photos where a specific issue was detected (best for understanding each problem). By Photo groups findings under each photo angle (best for seeing everything wrong in one area).

Each finding has three attributes: severity, confidence, and location. The next three sections explain each.

Every finding is rated by how much it matters. Severity tells you what to worry about first.

The percentage next to each finding (like 90%) is how sure Dr. Vin's AI is about that specific detection.

On photos, low-confidence findings appear with reduced opacity and dashed borders. High-confidence findings appear solid and fully visible.

Important: Confidence reflects detection certainty, not severity. A 60% confidence rust finding doesn't mean "mild rust." It means "we think this is rust but aren't certain."

Each finding detected on a photo is marked with corner brackets and a numbered dot showing the region the AI flagged.

The number on each dot matches the finding legend below the photo. Corner brackets outline the region the AI flagged. Their size roughly indicates the extent of the damage area.

Markers are placed at the edges of the detected region so they don't block your view of the actual damage.

Each finding includes an estimated repair cost range (e.g., $200-$450). These are estimates for negotiation, not quotes from a specific shop.

The range reflects variation in labor rates, parts pricing, and repair approaches across different markets. A dent repair in Manhattan costs more than in rural Ohio.

Expected cost is the most likely cost if you get the repair done, accounting for severity and probability. Use these estimates as a negotiation starting point when discussing price with the seller.

Dr. Vin estimates the vehicle's market value range based on comparable sales data, then adjusts for the specific condition issues found.

Market data quality depends on how many comparable listings are available. Common vehicles in populated areas have the best data. Rare vehicles or thin markets may have wider ranges.

When you provide an asking price, Dr. Vin compares it against the condition-adjusted value and tells you how much attention this listing deserves. This is not a buy/don't-buy verdict; it is an attention-allocation recommendation to help you decide which listings are worth a closer look.

The brief is only as good as the photos, the market data, and the visible condition. It does not replace a VIN history report, a mechanic's inspection, or a test drive. Always verify in person.

A structural concern flag means the AI detected visual signals consistent with frame damage, prior collision repair, or structural alteration. This is the most serious flag in the report.

Structural damage can affect safety, insurance eligibility, and resale value. Per NAAA standards, structural damage caps a vehicle's grade at 2.0 regardless of cosmetic condition.

If flagged: Get a professional frame check before purchasing. A body shop inspection typically costs $100-$200 and can confirm or rule out structural issues that photos alone can't fully assess.

The quality of your assessment depends on the photos you provide. More angles mean a more complete picture.

Always pair a Dr. Vin report with a test drive and, for high-value purchases, a professional mechanic inspection. A photo-based assessment is your first line of defense, not your only one.