Instant VIN Check - Reveal Hidden Facts with Vehicle History
Are you buying or selling a used vehicle? Don’t forget to run the VIN Check and get the vehicle history service to examine the vehicle’s complete specifications and its record, like auction, accident, damage, title, and sales records.
What is a VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)?
The Vehicle Identification Number or VIN is a 17-digit code that identifies a certain vehicle that was assigned by the manufacturer. Although the vehicle has the same year, make, models, and trim, the VIN will obviously be different. Each digit of the VIN represents all the components that made the vehicle, such as engine, year of manufacture, and the country of origin where the vehicle was manufactured.
A VIN looks like this: 1G3NG52M2X6304842. The format was introduced by the International Standards Organization (ISO) in 1981 and is now used worldwide. Each position in the VIN can contain numbers (0–9) or letters (A–Z), but I, O, and Q are skipped to avoid confusion with 1 and 0.
VIN Examples
Car: 1G3NG52M2X6304842
RV: 5VBABX5A2MA121581
ATV: 478TE230444410300
Motorcycle: SMTD54HFXNTBA4357
Truck: 1FUGGLDV6DLFA2220
Trailer: 4YDF26R278V505914
Classic: 252677X172255
Free VIN Decoding Examples
Our free VIN decoding service can help you get a few important pieces of information about the vehicle. It shows the vehicle’s specifications, auction/sales record, and market value. These are the examples showing how you can do a free VIN decoding service.
Here’s what you will be getting on the free VIN check.
| VIN | Year | Manufacturer | Model | Engine Capacity | Engine Type | Auction History | Market Value | Fuel Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WBXPC93489WJ29870 | 2009 | BMW | X3 | 3.0L | L6 DOHC 24V | 0 | $6,498 | Gasoline |
| 1FUGGLDV6DLFA2220 | 2013 | Freightliner | Cascadia | 12.8 L | Detroit DD13 | 4 | $20,000 | Diesel |
| 478TE230744409755 | 2004 | HONDA | SPORTRAX | 0.4 L | 0 | $6,000 | Gasoline | |
| ZARFAEBN3J7582817 | 2018 | ALFA ROMEO | GIULIA | 2 L | 5 | $14,390 | Gasoline | |
| 5YJXCAE44GF006807 | 2016 | Tesla | Model X | Electric Motor | 3 | $30,000 | Electric | |
| SMTD54HFXNTBA4357 | 2022 | Triumph | Speed | 1.2 L | 1 | $3,100 | Gasoline | |
| 5VBABX5A2MA121581 | 2021 | Tiffin Motorhomes | INC Allegro Red | 6.7 L | ISB | 0 | $320,000 | Diesel |
| 4YDF26R278V505914 | 2008 | Keystone | Keystone | 1 | $15,000 | Gasoline/Diesel | ||
| 252677X172255 | 1967 | Pontiac | Convertible | OHV | 2 | $15,000 | Gasoline |
Decoding Older VINs - Pre-1981
Before 1981, Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) were not standardized like today. Different car manufacturers used their own systems, and most of these VINs had only 5 to 14 characters. Because of this, it can be difficult to read or compare older VINs, especially when looking for specific information such as engine type, model year, or place of manufacture.
Before you buy or sell a classic vehicle, it’s recommended to use a reliable classic Car VIN lookup service to get the classic history report. Running a quick VIN check is important to know if the classic car matches your needs, preferences, and to make sure that the car has no dangerous red flags
What Information is Included in the VIN Number Lookup?
Once you’ve successfully checked the VIN number with our VIN check service, you will get a vehicle history report that shows the detailed specifications and the records, like accident, auction, and recall history.
Here’s what you will be getting through the vehicle history report.
Vehicle Specifications
Get the detailed vehicle specifications information through a VIN check. In this section, you will get the detailed information about the drive type, engine capacity, country of origin, fuel type, transmission, MSRP, vehicle type, trims, and doors.
Odometer Reading
Check how the mileage has changed over time. See the recorded mileage along with the date and the last known mileage of the vehicle before it was put on sale.
Title Check
Confirm the title status of the vehicle before buying. The report shows whether the title is clean, rebuilt, salvaged, or junked. Knowing this early can help you avoid costly repairs and legal problems.
Damage Verification
Find out if the car has ever been damaged by an accident, flood, fire, or other events. The report lists different types of damage so you can better understand the car’s true condition.
Accident Records
See if the vehicle has ever been involved in an accident. Details may include how many times it happened, the date and place, and the extent of the damage.
Recalls Check
Check if the vehicle was recalled by the manufacturer. In this section, you can get the detailed information on the recall dates, what causes the recall, and the recall status, whether it's fixed or still open.
Stolen Vehicle Records
Check if the car was ever reported stolen. The report shows when and where the theft occurred and the source of the record, helping you avoid buying a stolen or smuggled car.
Auction Records
Review past auction data to see the vehicle’s real condition. The report may include up to 10 photos, showing where and when it was auctioned, its damage status, and the final sale price to help you know the vehicle’s market value.
Service and Repair History
In this section, you’ll get to see the history of service and repair that was done to the vehicle. Get the full information on the date, location, and the kind of service or repair performed.
Sales History and Market Valuation
Check how many times the vehicle has been sold. In this section, you will also see the price of the vehicle that was sold in a few different conditions: outstanding, clean, and rough.
Service and Maintenance Schedule
Check the scheduled maintenance for the vehicle that is due when a vehicle reaches a certain mileage to keep the vehicle running smoothly.
Inspection Records
This section displays whether the vehicle has passed its required inspections and includes details such as inspection dates and recorded results. Regular inspection records also help confirm that the car has been properly maintained and meets safety standards.
Warranty Records
Check if the vehicle is still covered by warranty. Our vehicle history report shows you the limits, like the mileage and months of each warranty, like roadside assistance, bumper-to-bumper, corrosion perforation, and more.
Recalls Records
Check if the vehicle has ever been recalled in the past. You’ll see details like the causes of recalls, the date of recalls, status (closed/open), and the steps taken by the manufacturer to fix the recalls.
How Do I Find the VIN for My Vehicle?
To find the vehicle, you can examine these locations, as well as the vehicle’s documentation, to get the VIN.
On the vehicle’s body
- Dashboard: The most common location. You can see it through the windshield on the driver’s side.
- Driver’s Side Door: Look inside the door post or door jamb. It’s usually printed on the Federal Safety Certification Label.
- Under the Spare Tire: Sometimes the VIN is in the trunk area, under the spare tire. You may need to lift the tire to find it.
- Front of the Vehicle Frame: The VIN may also be stamped under the hood, near the windshield washer container, or on the frame, often on the driver’s side.
On the vehicle’s paperwork
Check on the vehicle’s paperwork, like the insurance or the registration paper, to get the VIN. Aside from that, here’s the list of paperwork where the VIN can be found:
- Title Document: The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is printed on the first page of the title, along with details like the vehicle’s make, model, and body type at the top of the page.
- Registration Card: The VIN also appears on the front of your registration card. If you don’t have it, you can contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to ask for a replacement.
- Owner’s Manual: The VIN is usually printed in the owner’s manual, especially for brand-new cars. However, used cars may not always include the original manual.
- Body Repair Records: Auto repair shops record the VIN when doing maintenance or repairs. It helps them order the correct parts and keep accurate records of the work done.
- Police Reports: After an accident or theft, the police use the VIN to identify the vehicle and create official reports related to the case.
- Insurance Documents: When you insure your vehicle, the insurance company uses the VIN to confirm the car’s identity. After verification, it will appear on your insurance card or policy papers.
How to Run a VIN Number Lookup?
To run our VIN check service, you will need to have the VIN of the vehicle you want to check. After that, follow these simple steps to successfully check VIN number.
Find the VIN
You will need to find the VIN of the vehicle you want to check. Refer to the section above to see where you can get the VIN.
S Fill in the Form
Click on the form above, then write down the VIN. After that, click on the button to begin the process.
Get the Report
Examine the preview page, then proceed to payment to get the full vehicle history report.
Why You Should Perform a VIN Check Before Buying a Vehicle?
Checking the VIN number through a VIN check service is important, as it helps you be informed about the vehicle’s full information, including the specifications and the records.
Here’s the importance of a vehicle VIN check that you should know about.
Check the Vehicle History: A VIN check provides a full picture of a car’s past. It can show ownership changes, accident reports, insurance claims, and whether the vehicle was used for commercial purposes, such as a taxi or fleet service.
Detecting Fraud: A car VIN check is crucial when you want to purchase a used car to know its full history, which includes being completely informed about the vehicle’s red flags, as it may have been involved in an accident or have its odometer rolled back.
Check the Safety Aspects: A vehicle VIN check helps you uncover the recalls and damage history of the vehicle, so you can be aware of its safety beforehand.
Legal Compliance: Checking the VIN number also confirms if the car is legally clear for sale. It helps verify that the vehicle is not stolen and follows local registration laws.
Insurance Valuation: The information from a VIN check can affect both insurance rates and market value. Insurers use these records to assess risk, while buyers can use them to negotiate a fair price and avoid vehicles that might be expensive to insure.
Get the Best Deal: With a VIN check, you can be informed about the vehicle’s MSRP; this information is crucial to make a good point when negotiating with the seller.
Who Uses a VIN?
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is important for many people during a car’s life. It is not only used by the owner but also by professionals and authorities who deal with vehicles every day.
- Mechanics: Since each vehicle has its own unique code, the VIN helps them identify the exact model, engine type, and production year.
- Insurance Companies: The VIN is used to check the car’s history before giving coverage. They use it to see if the car has been in accidents, stolen, or rebuilt, which helps them decide the insurance cost.
- Manufacturers: Checking the VIN helps them track recalls, production details, and warranty information throughout the car’s life.
- Police and Law Enforcement: The VIN is used to identify stolen vehicles or cars involved in crimes. It allows them to match records and confirm if the vehicle’s identity has been changed illegally.
- DMV or BMV offices rely on the VIN for registration, title transfer, and legal documents. It ensures that every vehicle is correctly recorded under the right owner.
In addition to that, buyers should run a vehicle VIN check on a vehicle’s background before purchasing. It helps them learn about past accidents, ownership, and title status to make a safer buying decision.
Our VIN Check Service vs. Competitors
See how our VIN check service is better than the other competitors, including Carfax! Check the table below to see what made us better in the vehicle VIN check industry.
| Comparison | Detailed Vehicle History | Carfax | EPICVIN | Auto Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sales listing with photos | ||||
| Market value data | ||||
| Detailed vehicle specifications | ||||
| Auction records with photos | ||||
| Offline VIN Decoding | ||||
| Support for classic vehicles | ||||
| Maintenance recommendation | ||||
| Ownership History | ||||
| Accident history | ||||
| Damage check | ||||
| Branded title check | ||||
| Salvage title check | ||||
| Ownership history map | ||||
| Recalls | ||||
| Support for heavy duty trucks, trailers & motorcycles | ||||
| Mobile & desktop application |
What Our Customers Are Saying
I had ordered a window sticker and vehicle history reports for my car. Detailed Vehicle History company helped me to get the report very detailed and accurate at very low price if you compare with carfax, and the window sticker report was very accurately and fast. I am highly recommend this Detailed Vehicle History company for your vehicle history report at very price
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Check VINs From Other Countries
Run VIN Check in Other States
- Alaska
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- Hawaii
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- Kentucky
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VIN Check FAQs
Is it Safe to Give Out My VIN?
Yes, our VIN check tool covers all major makes worldwide. Thus, if you have a classic car, you can also run a classic VIN decoder with our service.
Do you cover all vehicle makes?
Yes, our VIN check tool covers all major makes worldwide. Thus, if you have a classic car, you can also run a classic VIN decoder with our service.
How long can I access my reports?
Our VIN lookup reports are accessible to you forever, with no expiry date. You may also buy additional VIN Check packages in the future.
Can a VIN tell you who owns a car?
You cannot find a car’s current owner using only the VIN because privacy laws like the DPPA (Driver’s Privacy Protection Act) keep that information confidential.
How to Check if a Car is Stolen by VIN?
You can use our VIN Check and get a vehicle history report. On the vehicle report, you will see a “Theft Record” section where you can examine the date, location, and the stolen vehicle data source.
How to check VIN Number for Free?
If you want to check the VIN number for free, you can use our free VIN Decoder tool. However, note that you will only get the basic information of the vehicle, like the trim, country of origin, transmission, and drive type
What information will a VIN lookup show me?
A VIN lookup gives you two main types of essential information. First, it’s the vehicle’s core details, such as its manufacturer, model year, country of origin, and where it was assembled.
Second, it provides a comprehensive history report, which details everything from past owners and service records to accident history, open recalls, theft alerts, and any major title issues like salvage or flood branding. Check a sample record to see what you will get through a VIN lookup.
Which documents usually have the VIN number?
You can find a vehicle’s VIN on essential paperwork like the title, registration, and insurance card. The VIN also usually appears on other important vehicle records, such as service and repair invoices.
Can a vehicle’s VIN ever be changed?
The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique code that lasts forever. It’s illegal to change it.
The only time a new VIN is allowed is in rare, special cases like:
- Major rebuilds after huge damage.
- Restoring a classic car.
- Police recovered it after it was used in a crime.
In these rare cases, the DMV must inspect the car thoroughly and issue a brand-new, unique VIN. Trying to hide or change a VIN is a felony
Are VIN numbers unique for every vehicle?
Yes, the VIN number is unique for every vehicle. Every vehicle has a unique 17-character VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). This code is the primary identifier and stays with that specific vehicle for its entire lifespan. Every vehicle manufactured since 1981 has a unique 17-character VIN. This system ensures no two cars share the same number.
Because each VIN is permanent and unique, it can be used to monitor a car’s accidents, recalls, and theft reports, making it an essential tool for both owners and law enforcement.
How Often do We Update our Database?
Our database is regularly updated, with most of the sources automatically refreshing the data every 24 hours. For example, our title and odometer reading records are in sync with the DMV across the state.
We’ve updated our insurance and loss report within 48 hours to a maximum of 72 hours after the events happened, after being processed by the authorities. In addition to that, our auction records are synced in real time, so if a vehicle was sold at an auction yesterday, our database is automatically updated with the latest information.
This continuous update process ensures that every report reflects the most current and verified information available.
