B2L2

VIN check could be done at ICBC website (redirect to Carproof), $70.

I would suggest to get a garage to do pre-purchase inspection (PPI) if you aren't mechanical/car inclined.  Even you are, the owner may not trust you to do all the inspection anyway.

B2L2

Just extra info for you.  

Title check is free on the ICBC website but it only tells  you whether it has clean title, or salvage, etc (the link is quite hidden).  If it is older car, air care history is also available for free (good for checking air car history or possible roll-back odometer).