CLEVELAND -- Used cars and SUVs can hide secrets about their damage. But don't be fooled. A quick check of the vehicle's history report can save you a lot money and years of misery. "Good Morning Cleveland" anchor Paul Kiska held an experiment that drives home the point of how important it is to know your vehicle's history.

CARFAX, a vehicle research company, helped set up the experiment. CARFAX parked three cars in the parking lot at SouthPark Mall in Strongsville. The red and silver cars had no problems and no crashes, but the white Buick was in a nasty crash. It was hit on the side, bending the frame and totaling the car. But crews fixed up the white Buick so it now looks good as new. The experts call it a "salvage car".

If you could check the vehicle’s history you would have seen the white Park Avenue's report from CARFAX reads, "alert", "problem found", "total loss" and most importantly, "salvage title".

So Newschannel5 asked random strangers to use only their eyes, ears and instincts to check the three cars for past damage. They didn’t get to look at a history report from Car Fax. Could they tell the difference between the cars that hadn’t been in an accident from the one that had?

Turns out, everyone Newschannel5 asked to compare the cars ended up focusing on the engines, and how they looked and sounded. But the experts said that’s not good enough. Larry Gamache with CARFAX said, “Unfortunately, it’s pretty easy for con men to steam-clean an engine or replace it and it's going to look brand new. So get below surface when searching for a used car."

Hidden damage could include problems with the computer chips now located "under" the engine or driver's seat. The brake lines could be damaged or the air bags flooded.

Like many people, Jumaane Cook has knowingly bought wrecked, rebuilt cars to save money. They're supposed to be discounted if the dealer tells you they're salvage cars. But even with his trained eye Cook picked the wrong car twice.

Using the 17-digit vehicle identification number, you can get unlimited history reports from www.carfax.com for $25 or at www.autotraders.com for free.

Experts suggest you ask the salesman for a history report or to take the car to be inspected by a mechanic and if they refuse, just walk away.