Top Gun Collision Experts

What is a VIN and How Can I Find It?

In today's society, we have numbers assigned to us as soon as we enter the world, from our date of birth to our social security number. Our cars also have their own social security numbers, but they're called Vehicle Identification Numbers, more commonly known as VINs.

At Top Gun Collision Experts, we always work around VIN numbers while repairing a wide range of vehicles in Rockville, MD, so we are familiar with this information and are happy to give you some insight into how you can use and understand VINs too. 

What is a VIN and why is it important to you?

Your vehicle’s VIN is a unique 17 character identification code that is exclusive to one specific vehicle. Many have called it your vehicle’s fingerprint, because it is the one completely distinct thing that every car ever made must have.

VINs are composed of a series of capital letters and numbers and need to be exactly 17 characters in length. It's different if the car was built prior to 1981, wthen VINs ranged from 11 to 17 characters.

Why are VINs useful?

VINs are useful in a wide range of situations. If your vehicle is recalled or if you have any type of a warranty claim, there is no way of mistaking your vehicle from any other in existence. It is designated only for your vehicle and is always admissible in any court of law in the U.S. Additionally, if your vehicle is stolen or you need to file an insurance claim, your VIN will help the necessary parties to properly identify your vehicle.

Where is the VIN located on your vehicle?

There are two locations where your vehicle’s VIN might be located.

The first one is at the corner where your windshield meets the dashboard on the driver’s side of the car.

The simplest way to get a clear look at it is to stand just outside of your vehicle looking down directly at the corner through your windshield.

If you can't see it, then it is likely located on where the door closes (the door post) on your driver’s side. With some vehicles, it could be located in both locations, but it should always be in at least one.

You can also usually find your VIN number on your insurance card or insurance policy. Also, check your vehicle title and registration, which should also include that number.

Some car-crazed people know their VIN numbers by heart, can you believe it? Although you may not be able to commit the 17-character code to memory, always make sure you have a record of your VIN and know where it exists on your vehicle.

Sources: Wikipedia, MSN and AAA