Where is the VIN? Find the VIN number location in your car

Where to find the VIN?

If you don’t have time to search through specific models, check these four universal spots first. 90% of passenger vehicles (sedans, SUVs, trucks) have the VIN in at least one of these areas.

1. Dashboard (Windshield)

This is the most common and accessible location.

• Where: Look at the bottom corner of the dashboard on the driver’s side.
• How to see it: Stand outside the car and look through the windshield. It is usually stamped on a metal plate.
• Note: If this plate is obscured or tampered with, check other locations immediately.

2. Driver’s Side Door Jamb (B-Pillar)

Often found on a certification label or sticker.

• Where: Open the driver’s door and inspect the door jamb (the metal pillar where the door latches) or the edge of the door itself.
• What to look for: A sticker containing tire pressure info, production date, and the 17-character VIN.

3. Engine Block (Under the Hood)

A more permanent location, often stamped directly into the metal.

• Where: Pop the hood. Look at the firewall (the partition between the engine and the cabin) or on the shock absorber tower.
• Challenge: This area is often dirty, greasy, or covered by plastic engine covers.

4. Floor (Under the Mat)

Common in modern European and some Asian cars.

• Where: Slide the front passenger seat (or sometimes driver seat) all the way back.
• How to find it: Lift the floor mat and look for a small plastic flap or a cut in the carpet. The VIN is stamped into the chassis underneath.

Can't read the code? Is it dark or rusted?

Don’t risk writing down the wrong character (confusing ‘0’ with ‘O’ or ‘1’ with ‘I’). Use your phone’s camera to scan the VIN instantly.

Features:

• OCR Technology: Reads VINs from dirty engines and dark corners.
• Built-in Flashlight: Perfect for checking under seats.
• Copy & Paste: Save the VIN digitally to avoid errors.

Scan VIN

Where else to find the VIN? (Documents)

If you don’t have access to the physical vehicle, or the VIN is illegible, you can find the number on official paperwork. The VIN is legally required on:

• Vehicle Title (Pink Slip)
• Registration Card
• Insurance Policy Documents
• Owner’s Manual
• Police Reports (if applicable)

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What if the VIN is missing or scratched off?

A missing or altered VIN is a major red flag.

1. Rust/Damage: On older cars, use a wire brush (if on the chassis) to clean the area.
2. Tampering: If the dashboard plate looks removed or the door sticker is peeled off, do not buy the car. This often indicates a stolen vehicle or one constructed from stolen parts (cloning).