What is a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?
A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique 17-character sequence of numbers and letters that identifies your vehicle. It’s used by various entities, including the Department of Motor Vehicles, insurance companies, and law enforcement agencies.
Key Facts About VINs
- Every VIN is exactly 17 digits long
- Standardized by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in 1981
- Contains coded information about the vehicle, such as its specifications and manufacturing location
How to Find Your VIN
You can typically find your VIN in several locations on your vehicle:
- Driver’s side dashboard near the windshield
- Driver’s side door jamb
- Front end of the car frame
- Under the hood (near the latch or on the firewall)
- On luxury vehicles, sometimes on fenders, bumpers, or trunk lid
If you’re having trouble finding it on the vehicle, you can also check:
- Car insurance policy documents
- Vehicle title
- Registration documents
Decoding Your VIN
A VIN is divided into three sections:
-
World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI): First three digits
- Digit 1: Country of origin
- Digit 2: Manufacturer
- Digit 3: Vehicle type (combined with first two digits)
-
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS): Digits 4-9
- Provides specifics about the vehicle (model, restraint system, body type, transmission, engine)
- Digit 9: Check digit to ensure VIN accuracy
-
Vehicle Identification Section (VIS): Digits 10-17
- Digit 10: Model year
- Digit 11: Assembly plant
- Digits 12-17: Production serial number
Why You Need Your VIN
Your VIN is essential for various purposes:
- Obtaining car insurance
- Checking previous owners
- Verifying if a vehicle has been in major accidents or has a branded title
- Checking for manufacturer recalls
- Confirming if a vehicle has been reported stolen
How Car Insurance Companies Use VINs
Insurance providers use VINs to:
- Verify vehicle details when issuing new policies
- Check vehicle history, including any branded titles or previous accidents
- Ensure accurate quoting by confirming vehicle specifications
While you might not need your VIN to get an initial insurance quote, it’s required before finalizing the policy. Providing your VIN during the quoting process can help ensure you receive the most accurate quote possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need my VIN to get car insurance?
Yes, you’ll need to provide your VIN before an insurance provider will issue a policy, although you might be able to get a quote without it.
Can I still get insurance if I bought a car with a branded title?
Yes, but your options may be limited. Some insurers won’t cover vehicles with branded titles, or may only offer liability coverage.
Will the VIN change my car insurance quote?
Yes, providing your VIN can affect your premium. It gives insurers more detailed information about your vehicle, such as its trim level, safety features, and history, which can impact your insurance costs.
