A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique code that is assigned to each individual vehicle manufactured. It serves as a vehicle's fingerprint, providing a way to identify and track a specific car or truck throughout its life. The VIN is made up of 17 characters that consist of both letters and numbers.
Looking to locate the VIN on your vehicle?
The VIN can be found in several different locations on a vehicle, depending on the make and model. Here are some of the most common places to find a VIN:
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Dashboard: The most common location to find a VIN is on the driver's side dashboard, visible through the windshield. It is typically located in the lower left-hand corner of the dashboard and can be seen by looking through the windshield from outside the vehicle.
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Driver's side door jamb: Another common location for the VIN is on a sticker or plate located on the driver's side door jamb. This location is also known as the "B-pillar" and contains other important information about the vehicle, such as tire size and recommended tire pressure.
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Engine block: Some vehicles may have the VIN stamped on the engine block or transmission case. This location is typically used for high-end or performance vehicles.
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Vehicle registration or title: The VIN can also be found on a vehicle's registration or title documents.
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Engine block: The VIN may be listed on an insurance policy or insurance card.
It's important to note that the VIN is a critical piece of information, and it's essential to ensure that the VIN listed on the vehicle matches the VIN on any associated documents.
What components make up a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?
World manufacturer identifier
| Position | Description |
|---|---|
| 1-3 | The first three characters uniquely identify the manufacturer of the vehicle using the world manufacturer identifier or WMI code. |
Vehicle descriptor
| Position | Description |
|---|---|
| 4-9 | This is used, according to local regulations, to identify the vehicle type, and may include information on the automobile platform used, the model, and the body style. The 9th Character is the check digit. If the calculated value is a digit in between 0 to 9 then check digit should be that value. If the calculated values is 10 then check digit should be X. |
Vehicle descriptor
| Position | Description |
|---|---|
| 10 | Model year of the car. |
| 11 | Plant assembled the car. |
| 12-17 | Serial number of the car. |
What are the common uses of the VIN?
VINs are commonly used by law enforcement agencies, insurance companies, and vehicle manufacturers to track and identify vehicles. Car buyers can use the VIN to learn valuable information about a vehicle's history, such as accidents, recalls, and previous owners.
This information can help them make an informed decision about purchasing a vehicle and can also aid in the process of selling or trading in the vehicle.
Contributors
XA Editors