A car buyer can simply ask a seller for the 17 digit VIN
number which should be on the car registration or title. They also can
find the VIN right on the vehicle. Usually, the VIN number is located
on the frame of the front doors, on the dash near the window, on the engine,
or around the steering wheel. The number is also listed on a car's guarantee
and maintenance booklet. If you can't find the number yourself, you can
either call the car manufacturer or check a state maintained web site
that provides information about where it can be found.
VIN Number History
Get a free VIN History
check or learn more about the history of VINs below.
History of the Vehicle Identification Number "VIN".
In the mid 1950's American automobile manufacturers began stamping and
casting identifying vin numbers on
cars and their parts. The auto identification number has become referred
to as the "VIN". The obvious purpose was to give an accurate
description of the auto when mass production numbers were starting to
climb in very significant numbers. Research has shown that early Vin's
came in all sorts of variations which depended on the individual manufacturer
at that time.
In the early 1980's the National highway Traffic Safety Administration
(U.S. Dept. of Transport) required that all road autos must contain a
17 character VIN. This established the fixed VIN system for major auto
manufacturers as it is known today. Thus, establishing a unique "Finderprint"
style number for each unique auto which rolled off the assembly line.
