Every car has a story. If you know how to read the number on its specification plate, you’ll hear it told by its Vehicle Identification Number. Whether you are a lifelong gear-head or just a casual driving enthusiast, your car’s VIN can provide valuable details about your machine.
So, decoding the VIN for cars is mandatory if you want to buy a used car. Decoding VIN will not only give you exact history of the car but also save your money.
Article Summary
What is A Car VIN?
The VIN number is a unique code that is assigned to each motor vehicle during the manufacturing process. It is essentially the fingerprint of the car, and it contains a series of data necessary to detail the individual characteristics of each vehicle, distinguishing it from its peers.
A VIN number is presented in a 17-character alphanumeric string (where an alphanumeric string is a combination of letters and numbers) that is globally standardized.
The Structure of A Car VIN
A VIN is made up of 17 characters, each of which provides information about the vehicle. Here is what each number or letter represents:
- WMI (World Manufacturer Identifier): The first three characters.
- VDS (Vehicle Descriptor Section): Characters 4 through 9.
- VIS (Vehicle Identifier Section): Characters 10 through 17.
- Breaking Down the VIN: The First Three Characters
- WMI (World Manufacturer Identifier)
The WMI section is particularly important because it specifies the manufacturer and country of the vehicle: the first character is the region, the second is the country, and the third is the code for the manufacturer.
Example:
| Character Position | Description | Example (1HG) |
| 1 | Region (North America) | 1 |
| 2 | Country (USA) | H |
| 3 | Manufacturer (Honda) | G |
The Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Characters 4 through 9: Vehicle Attributes
The VDS provides details about the vehicle’s model, body type, engine type, and other attributes. This section can vary significantly between manufacturers.
Example:
| Character Position | Description | Example (CM826) |
| 4 | Model (Civic) | C |
| 5 | Body Type (Sedan) | M |
| 6 | Engine Type (1.8L) | 8 |
| 7 | Restraint System | 2 |
| 8 | Transmission Type | 6 |
| 9 | Check Digit | X |
The Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS)
Characters 10 through 17: Unique Identification
The VIS is where the VIN becomes specific to a single vehicle. This section includes the model year, plant code, and a unique serial number.
Example:
| Character Position | Description | Example (AH52984) |
| 10 | Model Year (2010) | A |
| 11 | Plant Code (Ohio) | H |
| 12-17 | Serial Number | 52984 |
How To Read And Decoding The VIN for Cars
Look up the VIN: It is usually located inside on the dashboard or on the driver’s side door, or on the vehicle’s registration papers.
Use a VIN Decoder: To simplify the process, use an online VIN decoder to break down the number into understandable details.
Manual Decoding: Use the standardized charts and tables listed below to decode each Element by hand.
The Importance of VIN in Car History
Vehicle History Reports
The vehicle identification number (called the VIN or chassis number by some) is important for getting a vehicle history report on the vehicle. A vehicle history report is very helpful for finding out about the past ownership, any car accidents that have taken place, mileage, and other details when buying a used car.
Theft And Recall Information
Because VINs track stolen vehicles, the car can be recovered or the credentials can also be added to a law enforcement database to explain the car’s tracking. VINs, in fact, are used worldwide to help law enforcement recover and identify stolen cars, as well as to determine if the car is part of a safety recall.
Checking the VIN will also let owners know if their vehicle has been recalled and, if so, what repairs it needs.
Practical Applications of VIN Knowledge
Buying A Used Car
Knowing the VIN can save you from buying a lemon by giving you insight into the car’s past, which you may not be able to discover by strolling around the lot.
Collecting Classic Cars
For example, the VIN can tell a collector of classic cars that the chassis of a car is totally original, and that it wasn’t rebuilt or misrepresented.
VIN and Insurance
Insurance companies rely on the VIN to make sure they’re ostensibly covering and charging the right car, based on its specifications and not enough of its history.
Common VIN Misconceptions
Misconception 1: VINs Change Over Time
VINs are permanent and do not change over the life of the vehicle.
Misconception 2: All Characters Are Letters or Numbers
The letters I, O and Q are never included in VINs because the numbers 1 and 0 could be confused with them.
Misconception 3: VINs Are the Same for Similar Models
Each vehicle has a unique VIN, even among identical models from the same manufacturer.
Tips for Protecting Your VIN
Preventing VIN Cloning: Don’t lose your VIN, because cloning is copying a VIN that comes from a legally registered car and using it to replace the identity of a stolen car.
Reporting Stolen VINs: If your car is stolen, notify the police of the VIN and search online databases to help retrieve it.
Conclusion: The Power of the VIN
Deciphering the VIN will give you a peek behind the scenes. Buy a used car and you can learn its history, collect classic vehicles and research your favourite old models, or just look at the car sitting in your garage.
Key Takeaways:
Unique Identifier: Every vehicle has a unique VIN, like a fingerprint.
Crucial Codes: the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be used to track the specific make, model and country of origin.
Historical Insight: VINs provide access to the vehicle’s history, including accidents and recalls.
Fraud Prevention: Knowing how to decipher a VIN can help you avoid becoming a victim of a scam or fraud.
Essential for Transactions: VINs are crucial for buying, selling, and insuring vehicles.
