Maybe the car fax thing could do that. I have not looked into how to do this, but I have a mental note that when I buy a car next time, I am checking that VIN number because I have seen several stories over the past few years where a person loses a car and the money they spent for it because it was stolen.
Also... there seems to be a secret VIN posted on the car somewhere, so I would check that too, if it is possible.
As far as Kansas specific- people in Kansas do not have to do annual inspections, so you might add to the negotiation that the seller guarantees (goes with you, or something) that the car will pass inspection, or they will pay to fix what needs to be fixed.
I always go ahead and register the vehicle, get it insured and make it legal as soon as possible because it has to be done sooner or later so why not just do it quicky and avoid any hassles that might come up due to waiting.
I have read here (and experienced in real life) that different places you go to get things registered and pay taxes and things operate better (faster) than others. So look into where is the easiest place to do all the hoop jumping, or maybe someone will post that.
If you figure out how to make sure your VIN is clean I would appreciate knowing who, how much and where to get that done.
If you are doing the car transaction anywhere you might consider doing it at a Police station parking lot. It breaks my rule about don't talk to cops, but maybe in this case it is OK. Maybe even walk in (or call around) and tell them what is going and where in the lot is best to do the deal.
And last but not least, try not to get shot during the transaction, that seems to happen on private transaction cars deals from time to time, so watch your back, maybe take 2-3 people with you when you do the deal, or something like that.