Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the VIN number

12th January 2022

All vehicles have a VIN number. But what is it, where do I find it and what makes it so important? Below you will find everything you need to know about this 17-character alphanumeric string engraved on the chassis of your vehicle.

 

Where do I find the VIN or chassis number?

The vehicle identification digits can easily be found engraved on various areas of the car and must always match. Please note that there is only one VIN number per unit. On today’s vehicles, the easiest place to see it is at the base of the passenger side of the windscreen. It is called “VIN Visible”, and it is easy to find.

 

To be on the safe side, when examining the vehicle, it is a good idea to look elsewhere on the car. Depending on the age of the car, it may be found on a plate attached to the bodywork, or directly engraved on the metal frame.

 

Most manufacturers also often incorporate the vehicle identification number inside the door hinge, according to Best Vin Decoder. In other cases, the string of numbers and letters is located under the bonnet, behind the trim and even under the driver’s seat mat. Normally, the manuals specify the location of these. However, in case you don’t have it, checking in these places will be more than enough. It should be noted that, in addition, these numbers are also printed on the car’s registration documents.

 

Why is it important to check the VIN number of a vehicle?

When buying a second-hand car, you should always check the VIN numbering. This means checking that the alphanumeric series indicated on the car’s registration documents corresponds to the actual number stamped on the car and in all its places. If they do not match, this could mean that the vehicle is stolen and should be reported.

 

What should I do if the VIN number does not match the vehicle registration certificate?

In essence, all VIN digits on a vehicle must be identical. If they are unequal, you should be careful. The same applies if the VIN is different from the vehicle registration certificate. In both situations do a reg car check, do not make a purchase, keep your distance and contact the authorities.

 

When the VIN number series on a car is uneven, this could represent a “cut and close” vehicle. That is, it is a car made from components of other vehicles. This is where criminals take the VIN numbering from one car and transfer it to another in an attempt to disguise the car’s provenance.

 

To be clear, VIN numbers are designed to be unambiguous and effective. If you witness a mismatch or mismatch, it is best to be wary of the seller. To be on the safe side, you can use VIN decoder from checkcardna.com, get more information and avoid being scammed.

 

It is worth mentioning that manufacturers in the automotive industry often use the Vehicle Identification Number to announce vehicle recalls. Therefore, it may be beneficial to know this and be informed if your car or the car you wish to purchase is recalled for any reason.