What is a VIN Number?
A VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique code assigned to every vehicle used worldwide for identification purposes. The VIN serves as the car’s fingerprint, distinguishing it from every other vehicle.
All road-going vehicles must have a VIN before they can be sold. Manufacturers install a VIN onto every car, truck, SUV, and motorcycle during production. This number stays with the vehicle for its lifetime.
The VIN is a 17-digit combination of letters and numbers. Each position in the VIN provides specific details about the vehicle, including the year, make model, engine type, country of origin, and more. No two vehicles have the same VIN, making it a reliable way to identify any car.
The purpose of the VIN is to register automobiles and help track them for legal and regulatory needs. Law enforcement uses VIN numbers during investigations. Insurance providers require the VIN to issue policies. The VIN also enables vehicle history reports and lets manufacturers identify recall candidates. Overall, the VIN gives each vehicle a unique identity required for ownership and operation.
VIN Number Format
A standard VIN is made up of 17 characters that can be broken down into different sections, with each section providing specific information about the vehicle.
The first section is the World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI). This is the first 3 characters of the VIN. It identifies the country, make, and type of manufacturer of the vehicle.
For example, if we consider a VIN from a BMW on IAAI (Insurance Auto Auctions, Inc.), the WMI might indicate that it is a German-manufactured BMW.
The second section is the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS). This is positions 4-9 of the VIN. It describes the vehicle attributes like body style, engine type, model, series, etc.
The third section is the Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS). This is positions 10-17 of the VIN. It provides a unique serial number for each vehicle. No two vehicles in operation are ever assigned the same VIN.
So in summary, the 17 VIN characters represent:
- Positions 1-3: WMI – Country, make, manufacturer
- Positions 4-9: VDS – Vehicle attributes
- Positions 10-17: VIS – Unique serial number
Knowing how to break down the VIN format provides valuable information about any vehicle’s origins and specifications.
VIN Numbers and Safety Recalls
A vehicle’s VIN number is crucial for identifying it in the event of a safety recall or technical service bulletin (TSB). Auto manufacturers issue recalls when they discover a vehicle defect that poses a safety risk or fails to comply with federal safety standards. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) mandates that manufacturers contact owners of affected vehicles and provide a free remedy.
To notify owners, manufacturers use the VIN number to accurately identify which specific cars need repair. Since no two vehicles have the same VIN, it pinpoints exactly which makes, models and production years are impacted. The VIN number allows manufacturers and dealers to quickly find the owners’ contact information from registration records so they can reach out by mail or phone with recall instructions.
Without VIN numbers, it would be nearly impossible for manufacturers to identify which owners to contact for recalls involving hundreds of thousands or even millions of vehicles. Owners may not be aware their vehicle has a dangerous defect unless notified. Unrepaired safety defects can lead to loss of vehicle control, fires, stalling, airbag non-deployment, or other hazards that may cause crashes and injuries. VIN-based notifications are crucial for achieving high completion rates on safety recalls and fulfilling the intent of NHTSA’s safety standards and regulations. Vehicle owners should always make sure to promptly respond to any recall notices they receive in the mail referencing their VIN number. Doing so reduces safety risks and helps maintain the vehicle’s resale value.
Finding Your VIN
A vehicle identification number (VIN) can be found in several locations on your car. Knowing where to look for your VIN is important for vehicle identification, registration, and lookups.
The most common locations to find a VIN on a car include:
- On the driver’s side of the dashboard. You can view the VIN through the windshield on a sticker or metal plate above or near the bottom edge of the windshield. This is the most convenient place to find the VIN.
- On the driver’s side door jamb. Open the driver’s side door and look around the door frame where it meets the body of the car. You’ll see a sticker or engraved metal plate with the VIN.
- On the engine block. The VIN is stamped into the metal of the engine block, which can be found under the hood on the driver’s side. Look for the number engraved on the engine near the top.
- On the vehicle title, registration card, and insurance documents. While not on the car itself, the VIN is listed on all your vehicle’s paperwork.
- On the rear of the car. Some models have the VIN etched on the rear bumper or trunk lid. Look near the bottom edge.
Knowing these common VIN locations on a car makes it easy to find the number when you need it for vehicle history reports, ownership verification, and DMV paperwork. With a simple check of the dash, door, or paperwork, you’ll have the unique VIN to identify your specific vehicle.
Buying a Used Car with the VIN
One of the most important steps when purchasing a used vehicle is researching its history using the VIN number. The VIN provides key details about that specific car that can help inform your buying decision.
When considering a used car purchase, always request the 17-character VIN from the seller. Then use it to access vehicle history reports from companies like Carfax or AutoCheck. These reports compile information from multiple sources to provide a comprehensive overview of that car’s background.
Specifically, the vehicle history report will outline if the car:
- Has any accident damage or frame repairs
- Has any outstanding recalls that need to be addressed
- Has a salvaged or rebuilt title due to extensive damage
- Shows discrepancies or anomalies in the odometer reading
- Was registered as a rental car, taxi, or fleet vehicle
- Has any reported theft, flood damage, or other issues
Researching the VIN can also provide maintenance records, emission test results, lemon law buybacks, and more. Compile a thorough history of the used vehicle before purchase to avoid any unpleasant surprises down the road. Ask the seller to explain any red flags or concerning issues uncovered in your VIN investigation.
With the car’s VIN in hand, along with the information obtained from a BMW VIN decoder, you can be an informed buyer and make the best decision on whether to purchase that used vehicle while understanding its true condition. Running a VIN check is essential due diligence when buying a pre-owned car.
Conclusion
In summary, the VIN is indispensable when it comes to proving ownership, securing insurance coverage, tracing the history of a vehicle, coordinating recalls, preventing auto theft, and servicing and repairing vehicles. This unique identifier is essential to drivers, dealers, manufacturers, law enforcement, insurers, and regulatory agencies alike.
