What is a vehicle identification
number (VIN)?

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique code assigned to a specific automobile, serving as its distinct fingerprint. No two vehicles in operation share the same VIN, making it an essential identifier. Comprising 17 characters—both digits and capital letters—the VIN provides detailed information about the vehicle, including its features, specifications, and manufacturer.

The VIN plays a vital role in tracking critical information such as recalls, registrations, warranty claims, theft records, and insurance coverage. It ensures transparency and helps buyers, sellers, and insurers verify the vehicle’s history and authenticity.

Double-check to ensure the VIN is accurate. If the VIN has fewer than 17 characters, it likely belongs to a pre-1981 vehicle.

Before 1981, VINs ranged from 11 to 17 characters. AutoVinify only provides reports for vehicles with 17-character VINs, so data on pre-1981 vehicles may be limited.

What if the VIN is not 17 characters long?

VIN Decode Explained

What do the numbers and letters in a VIN mean?

What do the 17 digits in a VIN mean? See the breakdown below of the meaning behind each segment of the VIN:

VIN Decode Explained

The VIN can be found by looking at the dashboard on the driver's side of the vehicle. The easiest way to view it is to stand outside the vehicle on the driver's side and look at the corner of the dashboard where it meets the windshield. If the VIN cannot be found there, open the driver's side door and look at the door post (where the door latches when it is closed). It is likely that the VIN will also be displayed in this location. See the image below:

Look for the VIN in these other locations:

• Insurance card/Insurance policy

• Vehicle title and registration

You can get a free VIN check by entering your VIN in the box below under "Run an AutoVinify® Vehicle History Report." Simply input your VIN and click "Check VIN." (This free check is available without requiring a purchase.)

Above the order form, you will see details such as the year, make, model, style, and country of assembly for your vehicle. You will also be informed of the number of vehicle history records available. To access the full report, select a package, provide your details, and complete your purchase.