About VIN Codes

What is a VIN?

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique 17-character alphanumeric code assigned to every motor vehicle when it's manufactured. Think of it as your vehicle's fingerprint - no two vehicles in operation have the same VIN.

VIN Structure

The VIN is divided into three main sections:

1. WMI - World Manufacturer Identifier (Characters 1-3)

The first three characters identify the manufacturer and the country where the vehicle was built. For example, vehicles built in the United States typically start with 1, 4, or 5.

2. VDS - Vehicle Descriptor Section (Characters 4-9)

These six characters describe the vehicle's model, body type, engine, and other key features. The 9th character is a security code called the check digit, used to verify the VIN's validity.

3. VIS - Vehicle Identifier Section (Characters 10-17)

The last eight characters provide specific information about the individual vehicle, including the model year, assembly plant, and a unique serial number.

Why Decode a VIN?

Verify vehicle specifications before purchasing
Check for recalls and safety issues
Confirm the vehicle's history and authenticity
Obtain accurate parts and accessories
Validate insurance and registration information

How to Use This Service

Our VIN decoder uses the official NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) database to provide accurate and comprehensive vehicle information. We also enhance the results with AI-generated descriptions to give you a better understanding of the vehicle.

Simply enter any 17-character VIN code on our homepage, and we'll provide you with detailed specifications, safety information, and links to additional resources.

Important Notes

VINs do not contain the letters I, O, or Q to avoid confusion with numbers 1 and 0
The VIN is typically found on the driver's side dashboard or door jamb
All information is cached for faster subsequent lookups
Cross-reference links help you verify information across multiple sources