A COMPLETE QUICKINSURE GUIDE ON HOW TO LOCATE THE VIN NUMBER OF YOUR CAR EASILY

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique 17-character code that identifies the history of your car, including its make, model, and manufacturing details. It also helps you verify its authenticity, track insurance claims, and prevent fraud. You can find your VIN number on your RC book, dashboard, or insurance document. Also, you can check your VIN online via trusted government platforms like Parivahan and compare and buy the best car insurance plans easily with reliable entities like Quickinsure.

Key Highlights:

●        Key importance of VIN

●        Understanding the structure of VIN

●        Where to find VIN

●        Process to check VIN online

The very first thing we look for in a car is its look, design, color, features, mileage, and affordability. However, the engine number, chassis number, and vehicle identification number (VIN) of a car are the essential aspects that every buyer should know while purchasing a new or used car. You know what? These numbers are the DNA of a car. They will help you know whether the car dealer is selling you a six-month-older car or a year-older car.

Through this blog post you will get a comprehensive knowledge of these key aspects, how to find them, and why they are important for you. Moreover, with reliable platforms like Quickinsure, you can improve your authority for automobile-related informational searches.

What is a Vehicle Identification Number?

The vehicle identification number of a car is a set of 17 character-identification codes for a specific automobile. This number allows individuals to check various important details such as the history of a vehicle, ownership records, accident reports, and legal status. This verification code is important for buying or selling a vehicle, as it helps determine its authenticity and condition. Individuals can find their VIN with the help of authorized agencies or through online platforms to ensure transparency and boost decision-making regarding automotive transactions.

Why does VIN Contains 17 Characters?

The alphanumeric VIN number of cars contains key details about your vehicle. Here’s a general breakdown commonly used by most manufacturers:

 

The first three characters in the VIN number of cars are known as the WMI (World Manufacturer Identifier), which indicates the origin and manufacturer of vehicles. The first character represents the country where the vehicle was produced, while the next two characters identify the specific manufacturer.

Vehicle Description Section

The next six alphanumeric characters in the VIN reveal key details about your vehicle. This section, known as the Vehicle Description Section (VDS), may vary depending on the manufacturer but generally provides vital specifications:

Character Position	Meaning	Description
4th Character	Vehicle Type	It indicates the type of vehicle, such as scooter, sedan, or sports bike
5th Character	Engine Capacity/Power	Represents the engine capacity or power range of the vehicle
6th Character	Engine Type	It specifies the type of engine, for example, single stroke or double stroke
7th Character	Design Sequence	Reflects the design sequence or platform code of the vehicle
8th Character	Model Variant	It denotes the specific version or model variant of the vehicle
9th Character	Check Digit	Ensures the accuracy and authenticity of VIN
10th Character	Manufacturing year	It identifies the year of the vehicle was manufactured
11th Character	Manufacturing Plant	It indicates the plant or factory the vehicle was produced in.
12th-17th Characters	Serial Number	It represents unique serial number assigned to each vehicle

 

Why Is VIN Important?

VIN is essential for every car owner because of the following reasons:

●        This number confirms the legal identity of the car, providing insights into the make, manufacturing date, and model of the car.

●        Many leading insurers use VIN to track claims.

●        Further, it helps buyers to verify the authenticity of a car, which includes the details of vehicle owners, especially in the case of buying a second-hand vehicle.

●        Most importantly, authorities can trace stolen cars with the help of this number.

●        As VIN offers the vehicle history, individuals use it to get relevant car insurance coverage.

Where Can One Find the VIN of a Car?

You can able to find the Vehicle Identification Number of a car in the different places on a car, and here are the common locations:

●        Registration Certificate (RC): When someone buys a car, the dealer first registers the car at the Regional Transport Office (RTO). The RTO then prints the VIN number on the RC of that car. Individuals also find the information on the smart card along with other details of the vehicle.

●        Dashboard: There are certain manufacturers that print the VIN of a car on the dashboard, which is usually found on the driver’s side.

●        Doors: The VIN number is also often printed on the side door of the driver. It is printed on a metal strip, which is usually found on the B-pillar of the car.

●        Hood: Vehicle owners can also find their VIN number under the hood, which is mainly located beside the engine.

●        Boot: Drivers can also find their VIN under the spare wheel in the boot.

●        Rare Wheel: Some leading car manufacturers also provide the VIN above the rear wheel.

●        Car Dealership: Moreover, individuals can visit their car dealership or can call them directly to get their VIN.

●        Insurance Policy Document: Since a car is insured during the time of purchase, then one can also find its VIN of the car mentioned on the car insurance policy. In this digital age, insurers have started providing policy documents through emails, which offers even easier access to get VIN.

●        Front Grille: Some leading manufacturers have started providing VIN printed under the front grille of the car.

Is It Possible to Check VIN Online?

In this digital age, car VIN checks are possible through trusted and renowned online databases like “Parivahan, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.” In addition, via these government portals, buyers can confirm the registration and manufacturing details of their vehicles by checking the VIN number for free.

You just need to simply follow these steps:

●        Visit the “Parivahan official website”.

●        Click on “Know Your Vehicle Details.”

●        Enter the registration number of your car.

●        Click on “Search Vehicle.”

Please note that, though you can find my VIN number online for free, to maintain privacy, the portal does not display the full VIN number. 

The Bottom Line

To understand and locate the VIN of your vehicle is crucial for ensuring transparency, authenticity, and safety in vehicle ownership. This unique code not only helps verify the history and legal status of your car but also safeguards you from potential frauds when buying or selling a vehicle. With trusted platforms like Quickinsure, you can make smarter, more confident decisions about your car.

Got Your VIN? Use it instantly to check flexible and comprehensive car insurance plans with Quickinsure!

FAQs:

1. What is a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?

A VIN is a unique 17-character alphanumeric code that identifies and provides details about a specific vehicle.

2. Where can I find my car’s VIN?

You can find the VIN on your car’s RC, dashboard, driver-side door, under the hood, or in your insurance policy document.

3. Why is VIN important?

The VIN helps verify a car’s authenticity, track its history, and assist in legal or insurance-related processes.

4. Can I check my VIN details online?

Yes, you can check your vehicle details using the Parivahan website under the “Know Your Vehicle Details” section.

5. Does the Parivahan portal show the full VIN?

No, the portal hides part of the VIN to comply with privacy and security regulations.

Published on - 18/11/2015