VIN Number-Things You Should Know
Every vehicle manufactured after 1981 has a unique number of seventeen characters known as vehicle identification number (VIN#). Basic aim of assigning a distinctive number to each vehicle is to give each vehicle individual identity. VIN number is used for obtaining detailed information about a specific car.
Vehicle Identification Number is usually imprinted on the body of the car or on any sticker insider the car. For instance, your number would be inside the doors, the dash, the trunk, engine, and/or quarter panels. The VIN number is very useful as it helps in getting all the records for everything that has ever happened to that car. From telling you who its manufacturer is to helping you with providing you information regarding your vehicle’s journey from factory to scrap mound.
Importance of Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
The VIN number can also be used to track owner’s name, address, registration number, theft, insurance and warranty claims. Before buying a car, check that the VIN numbers imprinted on different locations in the car are same and also ask for VIN report. If the VIN numbers are different, this means that the information provided to you is inaccurate and the car is remanufactured by using parts of different cars. Incase you are buying a used car, checking and verification of VIN number is a must.
States use the VIN number for tracking a car’s status. You need to protect yourself by thoroughly checking the VIN number on the used car you want to buy.
Insurance Companies a Good Source for Vehicle Identification Number Report
If you want a VIN report, ask the insurance agent. Insurance companies are a good way of getting information about insurance claims for theft or accidents etc. They will provide you the whole history of the car you are going to buy. You'll get all the accident and theft claim information as well as any factory recall information from insurance agent which would definitely help you in determining whether the car you are buying is a lemon or not?
Location of Vehicle Identification Number
The location of VIN number varies from car to car or manufacturer to manufacturer. Some of the common locations where you can find the Vehicle Identification Number are:
- Your car’s firewall
- Your car’s Radiator Support Bracket
- The Machined Pad on the front of the engine
- Drivers side door or post on passenger side
- Component parts such as engine, frame, etc.
- Your car’s Dash near the windshield
- The left hand side at the inner wheel arch
- The car’s Steering column
- Check the Guarantee & Maintenance Book in glove compartment
For the Later Model Years’ Locations of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN):
- Left instrumentation panel
- Dash plate by window
- Drivers door or post
- Firewall