What is VIN? How to check VIN number?

VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a number assigned by the automaker as a unique identifier of a car/model. The numbers are assigned based on an ISO 3779 - 1983 standard which allows for universal identification worldwide.

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The number is composed of 3 parts:

WMI - international identifier of the automaker - It is based on 3 numbers/letters.

VDS - description of the model - It is based on 6 characters and gives the description of the model in a sequence selected by the manufacturer.

VIS - unique auto identifier - These are the last 8 characters (last 4 are usually numbers) and almost always include the year of production and the manufacturing plant.

VIN is made up of alphanumeric characters, with last four almost always being numbers. They could make any combination composed of these capital letters and numerals: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 A B C D E F G H J K L M N P R S T U V W X Y Z.

The automakers will often separate the elements of VIN's, WIM's and VIS's with blank spaces or other punition marks but in the auto's documents VIN must appear as one string without any spaces or interruptions, the same is true for VIN's visible on/in an auto.

Material based on ISO 3779 (1983)

Where can I find VIN number?

On most passenger cars, you may find the VIN number on the front of the dashboard on the driver's side. The best way to see it is to look through the windshield from outside the car. You may also find the VIN number on the driver's side door pillar.

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If you don’t know where to find VIN number read these tips and you will find it very easy to find this unique vehicle identification number.

There are a number of different places that this unique code may appear on your vehicle. It depends on a car make you have but here we list the most popular places where you can locating the VIN:

  1. driver's side dashboard - it is viewable through the windshield
  2. driver's side door jamb - looks like a sticker
  3. driver’s side door
  4. on the engine compartment - look for a nameplate with VIN
  5. in the trunk - look for a nameplate with VIN

Should you have any trouble locating the VIN, we recommend contacting your dealership or manufacturer who can help you find the exact location for the specific make and model of your vehicle.

The VIN number you will find also on the vehicle’s insurance card and proof of registration and also in title records (for example in the USA).

The VIN number is very important unique vehicle identification number. Car’s VIN can tell you a lot of more than only where the car was manufactured. It contains all the vehicle history so it is very important to check the VIN number before you buy a car.

If the seller don’t want to show you VIN number you should know that something is wrong with the car and you should avoid this offer especially if the price is very low.

VIN check and VIN decoders are the most popular ways to check the car before buying it.

So don’t wait any longer - find the car’s VIN and check it on our web site.

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