Best way to do a VIN check on a budget?

[Denirooney]

I’m not trying to be cheap, but I’m cautious about spending money on used cars. I’m looking at a few options and want to check MINI VIN Report, but I don’t want to pay $40 every time I’m interested in one. Is there a reliable way to check the VINs without spending much or anything at all? Do you use free websites to narrow down your options and then pay for the ones you’re really interested in? Or is there a better strategy?
I’m open to any advice!