free vin decoder & lookup
use our free vin check to decode your vehicle identification number
free vin check in 3 easy steps
using our vin decoder is pretty straightforward. use these three easy steps below to decode your vin.
1. find the vin
to decode your vin, you need to find it first. it is usually found on the inside of the driver’s door jamb or the windshield.
2. vin lookup
enter the vin into the search form above. hit the button or press enter and wait until your vin is processed
3. get vin report
check through the report to ensure you entered the correct vin. if you need more data, you can get a vehicle history report.
what is a vin number (vehicle identification number)?
when a car is made, it’s assigned a 17-character code to identify it. it’s both letters and numbers, without any space or q, i, or o, since they are confusing with 0 and 1.
the first three digits are called the world manufacturer identifier (wmi), which identifies the manufacturer of the vehicle. after this comes 12 digits which represent the assembly plant – specific codes for different components, like body style and engine type.
finally, there are two more characters at the end that identify modifications made to individual vehicles by their owners or dealerships.
how to find the vehicle's vin number
the vin number is found either on the outside of the windshield at the bottom, on the driver’s side, or on the driver’s side door pillar. open the door and look for a label around the area where the door latches to the car. you may also find it on your license plate or in the engine bay, usually in front of the engine.
the motorcycle’s identification number can be found on its steering neck below handlebars; however, you might discover it near or around the motor and the frame – so make certain to check both locations before assuming anything! the semitrailer version has an even more accessible spot: on the front part of the semitrailer on the left side.
if you can’t locate the vin number on your vehicle, the vehicle’s registration, title or liability insurance documents will provide the vin number.
vehicle history report
a vehicle history report is a document that provides information about a car’s history, including accidents, theft, total loss records, repairs, and other important events. this information can be extremely helpful when you’re considering buying a used vehicle, as it can give you a better idea of the vehicle’s condition and value.
to get a vehicle history report, you’ll need your car’s vin (vehicle identification number) into our vin decoder on the top of the page, which can usually be found on the dashboard or doorjamb. you can then purchase a report from our partners that you will find in our free vin check report
once you have the report, you can use it to check for things like accident history, ownership history, depreciation rate and outstanding recalls. you will also find flood damage, junk, salvage title and loss records. by doing your homework before you buy, you can help ensure that you’re getting a good deal and a safe purchase.
frequently asked questions
what if my vin doesn’t decode?
check that you copied all of it correctly. make sure there are no spelling errors and make certain to include the letters o (o), i (i) and q.(q). the standard format does not contain these letters in order avoid confusion with numerals, but better to double-check.
why is it important to check the vin?
it is important to check the vin before buying a used car because it can help you find records of previous owners, accidents and repairs. you may also see if there are any manufacturer recalls on your new vehicle that need attention before we take delivery!
what is included in a vehicle history report?
a vehicle history report is a comprehensive 10-page document that offers critical information on used cars compiled from industry and government sources
it includes details such as specifications for the car, odometer readings, equipment installed or changed recently (including but not limited to tires), any major accidents it may have been involved in over its lifetime; whether there are liens against it currently pending sale by lenders who held original loans - these make up some relevant facts about your potential purchase if you were planning one!
who is a vehicle report for?
a vehicle history report is a must for anyone who owns or wants to buy used cars. the information it provides can help you avoid major problems in the future, such as accidents that may have been caused by previous owners and pull records of any repairs made on your current model year's vehicles.
are free vehicle history reports included with the decoder?
no, a free vehicle history report is not included in our vin number check report. however, you can buy an extra vehicle history report from one of our partners once you get your free vin report.