VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
A 17-character unique ID for every vehicle. Required for title, insurance, and history reports.
Why it matters
The Vehicle Identification Number is a 17-character code (using letters A-Z except I, O, Q, and digits 0-9) uniquely assigned to every vehicle manufactured after 1981. The VIN encodes manufacturer, model year, plant, vehicle type, and a unique serial number. Locations: door jamb sticker (driver side), windshield bottom (driver side), and the title/registration. Use the VIN to pull a Carfax or AutoCheck history report, check NHTSA recalls (free at nhtsa.gov), and verify the vehicle matches what the dealer claims (year/make/trim).
Related terms