Guide to finding the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)

The VIN code serves as the primary identifier for a vehicle and is essential for various documentation processes. Let’s delve deeper into what the vehicle identification number is, where you can find it in an auto, and why you should check it in cars for sale in Indiana.

VIN and its purpose

VIN, which stands for Vehicle Identification Number, is a 17-character code unique for each car. It provides information about the year of production, the car itself, and its manufacturer. The VIN assigned to a vehicle at the factory remains unchanged throughout the car’s lifespan, unlike registration documents that may be updated in case of loss or a car owner/location changes.

Where is the VIN located on a car?

The VIN is typically stamped on non-removable body parts that are less likely to be damaged in an accident: the driver's side door jamb, the driver's side dashboard near the windshield, the engine block, and the firewall. Additionally, you can find a VIN number on the upper left section of the front panel inside the cabin, sometimes on the fender support or shock absorber cup. In the event of mutilation, the VIN is duplicated on a special plate affixed to the vehicle in the areas where the manufacturer would normally affix it.

How to verify the authenticity of the VIN

To ensure the authenticity of a VIN code, you should check it in documents: the number must be written as a single continuous line without any spaces between the characters. When the VIN is stamped on the factory plate, manufacturers may choose to display it in either one continuous or two lines, but it must still be without any separations and contain exactly 17 characters (digits and capital letters) based on the standard, issued in Jan. 1981.

The identification number utilizes all digits from 0 to 9 and Latin letters A to Z. To prevent confusion, the letters O, I, and Q are excluded from this list, as they can easily be mistaken for 1 and 0.

When checking the VIN code, look for the following signs of authenticity:

• Consistent character depth throughout the code
• Uniform font style without any unnecessary elements or embellishments
• Absence of welded seams
• No signs of mechanical damage
• No traces of putty
• Consistent panel thickness and outer coating
• Matching displays of the VIN on both the front and inner sides
• Uniformity between the panel's coating and adjacent areas

When you need to know your VIN

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) provides more information than just the production year or equipment details. Here are the most frequent cases when you need it:

When selecting spare parts

Seach by VIN helps you to avoid purchase mistakes: With numerous car generations, it can be challenging to buy the exact part required. This is particularly true for complex components like transmissions and engines.

• Streamline parts search: Many dealers categorize their inventory based on VINs, making it easier to find appropriate parts. Numerous online retailers offer dedicated search tools where you can enter the VIN to quickly locate compatible components.

Using the Vehicle Identification Number helps ensure you select the correct parts.

When buying a car

When purchasing a vehicle, searching by the VIN code allows you to access essential information, including:

1. Document history: Check if any documents have been restored and the date of re-registration.
2. Ownership: Learn how many owners the car had and the transaction details.
3. Service records: Find out about repairs conducted at authorized service centers.
4. Accidents: Determine if the vehicle has been involved in any accidents.
5. Odometer readings: Review the wheel revolution counter readings throughout the car’s lifespan.
6. Usage patterns: Understand how the vehicle was used, such as for taxi services, car sharing, or leasing.

Check your VIN details here.

This information helps minimize the risk of purchasing a vehicle with hidden issues or a questionable history.

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Components of a VIN Code

A Vehicle Identification Number consists of three main parts:

1. WMI (World Manufacturer Identifier) - 3 Characters: This section provides information about the manufacturer.
2. VDS (Vehicle Description Section) - 6 Characters: This part contains details about the vehicle. In many models, excluding some Japanese and European brands, the last character typically serves as a check digit, which helps prevent illegal re-stamping.
3. VIS (Vehicle Identification Section) - 8 Characters: This section includes additional information about the vehicle, such as the manufacturing plant and the production year.

Detailed number breakdown

Let’s examine the meaning of each character in the 17-digit VIN code:

• 1st Character: Geographic area.
• 2nd Character: Country of manufacture.
• 3rd Character: Manufacturer. If there are fewer than 500 vehicles of this model, this position contains 9.
• 4th to 8th Characters: Information on body type, vehicle model, engine specifications, and equipment features.
• 9th Character: A check digit for vehicles from the USA and China; other manufacturers may include either a check digit or additional information.
• 10th Character: Model year. Note that this may differ from the calendar year, as some European or Japanese manufacturers may omit this detail.
• 11th Character: Manufacturer identifier.
• 12th to 17th Characters: Sequence number of vehicle production, indicating its place on the assembly line. In the USA, these are typically numeric, while European manufacturers may use letters as well.

Is it possible to sell a car with a damaged VIN?

You can sell such a car, but you can’t register it if the VIN is not readable. Therefore, when buying a used car, carefully inspect the identification number and the part on which it is applied.

We do not recommend buying cars with VIN readability problems. After all, only an expert can understand whether the number rotted on its own or was deliberately damaged to hide traces of illegal interference.

If you want a high-quality used car with a crystal-clear past, visit the Indy Auto Man car lot in Indianapolis. We carefully collect our inventory and provide free CARFAX vehicle reports for the autos in our stock.