How can I check the vehicle maintenance history on a car?

For any car, you can read a Carfax, but they tend to be quite inaccurate, as lots of mechanics don't report maintenance. You could ask the previous owner. Many like me keep journals for each car that show everything ever done to the car, and have all the receipts.

Yes, thank you! Yes, most independent shops do not report repairs to any agency. Only dealerships do. Thus, Carfax is limited... Ask the previous owner, if available. If the car is offered by a dealership or dealer, it's a lot more difficult, isn't it? Thank you, Daviid

It's nice when you find a car that has maintenance provenance. I usually don't rely on that, but trust my eye. I inspect a car myself and use my own findings to determine value. If you're not a mechanic, get one. For a couple hundred bucks or less, a mechanic will do a through inspection and report any problems or potential troubles. I always recommend used car buyers do this before handing over any cash..... I've recommended Lemon Squad's inspection service and they've been reliable.