Chevrolet VIN Lookup

What is a VIN Number (Vehicle Identification Number)?

A Vehicle Identification Number, commonly abbreviated as VIN, is a unique 17 digit serial number containing both letters and numbers (for example, 5UXFA13544LU21045) which is used to identify vehicles such as cars, motorcycle, and trucks. Every vehicle sold must have a unique, unchanging VIN, making it traceable and identifiable.

Why the VIN Is Important

When buying or selling a car, the VIN plays a crucial role. The VIN helps buyers make informed decisions and avoid potential risks associated with purchasing a vehicle. Below are some of the important uses of the VIN when selling or buying a vehicle:

1. Vehicle History: The VIN provides access to the vehicle’s history, including its ownership records, accident reports, service and maintenance records, and any previous insurance claims. This information helps potential buyers assess the condition and reliability of the vehicle before making a purchase.
2. Authenticity and Legality: The VIN helps verify the authenticity and legality of the vehicle. It ensures that the vehicle being bought or sold is not stolen, salvaged, or involved in any fraudulent activities. Comparing the VIN on the car with the VIN on the title documents helps ensure that the vehicle’s identity matches its legal documentation.
3. Vehicle Specifications: The VIN contains important information about the vehicle’s specifications, such as the make, model, year of manufacture, engine size, body type, and other relevant details. This information is useful for buyers to confirm that the vehicle meets their requirements and expectations.
4. Vehicle Valuation: The VIN plays a significant role in determining the value of a vehicle. It provides data about the vehicle’s age, mileage, previous accidents, and other factors that affect its market worth. Buyers and sellers can use this information to negotiate a fair price based on the vehicle’s condition and history.
5. Recall and Safety Information: Manufacturers use the VIN to identify vehicles affected by recalls or safety issues. By checking the VIN, buyers can find out if any outstanding recalls exist and take appropriate action before purchasing the vehicle. This helps ensure the safety and well-being of the driver and passengers.

What does each digit in a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) mean?

Each character of the VIN provides specific information about the vehicle, and it’s important to understand what each character represents when decoding the VIN.

Here’s how to decode each character of the VIN:

World Manufacturer Identifier

The first three characters of the VIN represent the World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI). This identifies the manufacturer and country of origin.

• The first digit defines the country of origin or the final point of assembly of your vehicle.
• The second digit indicates the manufacturer and the region where your vehicle was manufactured.
• The third digit, when coupled with the first two digits, indicates your vehicle’s type or manufacturing division.

Vehicle Description Section

Characters 4 to 8 represent the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS). This section provides information about the vehicle’s model, body style, engine type, and more.

• The fourth through eighth digits provides information about the vehicle’s model, body type, restraint system, transmission type, and engine code.
• The ninth digit is the check digit, which is used to verify the validity of the VIN. The number that appears in the ninth position varies and is based on a mathematical formula developed by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Vehicle Identifier Section

Characters 10 to 17 represent the Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS). This section provides information about the vehicle’s production sequence, options, and features.

The 10th digit of a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) often indicates the model year of the vehicle. It is usually represented by a letter or number that corresponds to a specific year or range of years.

VIN Model Year Coding System in North America

There are online VIN decoder tools that can help you decode the VIN of a vehicle and provide you with valuable information about the vehicle’s history and specifications.