The VIN number is a personal code for any vehicle. The VIN number consists of 17 different characters. The code displays the most important information about the car, including information about the manufacturer, technical specifications, and production date. The car is equipped with an individual code by the manufacturer, and it cannot be changed until the end of its operation. The code is also indicated when preparing the documentation for the car. According to the law, the manufacturer can use one identification code again only after 30 years. In essence, the VIN code is a unique code that is never repeated.

Content:

1. How to verify the authenticity of the VIN code?

2. What is the use of the VIN code?

3. Where is the VIN code placed on a car?

4. How is the VIN code applied?

5. What does a VIN code consist of and what information does it contain?

6. How can a VIN code help when buying a car?

7. How does the VIN code help you choose the right spare part?

8. How can a VIN code help track a car's history?

How to verify the authenticity of the VIN code?

To verify that the code is genuine, use the following methods:

1. Check the code in the traffic police database.

2. Conduct an external inspection (the factory code consists of numbers and letters of the same size and shape).

3. Make sure that the code is securely fixed (the original sign is not susceptible to physical influences).

4. Conduct an examination of the painted over embossed signs.

Fake codes are often easy to spot by welding marks, putty residue, and physical damage. The genuine factory VIN code is applied neatly, at equal intervals and depth. There should be no traces of painting or careless processing.

What is the use of the VIN code?

The main purpose of the VIN code is to identify the car. In addition, the VIN code provides a complete list of information about the car. The VIN code is indicated in the transport documents. Information about the manufacturer can be found out by the first 8 characters.

Using the VIN code, a motorist can track important information:

1. Repairs after road accidents.

2. Being on bail.

3. Thefts recorded by the State Traffic Safety Inspectorate.

4. Sales history.

The code allows you to find out information about the operation, owner data, configuration features, upholstery color, etc. In practice, unscrupulous sellers often provide false data when selling. VIN check will help a potential buyer avoid being deceived.

Where is the VIN code placed on a car?

The manufacturer has the right to apply the code in one of the following places:

1. Under the windshield.

2. Under the hood.

3. Under the trim near the driver's seat.

4. On the driver's door pillar.

Russian manufacturers apply the VIN code to the shock absorber strut on the passenger side or between the passenger compartment and the engine. Only the manufacturer can know the exact location. The owner usually learns this information only after repairs.

How is the VIN code applied?

Car manufacturers use two methods of application: manual and automatic. Some corporations apply the code using scribe marking to protect against possible damage. The most universal option is laser marking. It is compatible with almost all materials and alloys. There is also impact-dot marking: the symbols consist of a series of dots applied using a special tip.

What does a VIN code consist of and what information does it contain?

The personal identification code includes three components:

1. WMI is the international manufacturer's code.

2. VDS is an information component.

3. VIS is the distinguishing feature.

It is worth considering what each symbol means separately.

1. Symbol 1 - geographic region.

2. Symbol 2 - the country in which the car was manufactured.

3. Symbol 3 - manufacturer.

4. Symbols 4 and 5 are a series.

5. Symbol 6 - wheelbase.

6. Symbol 7 - body type.

7. Symbol 9 is a control number confirming the authenticity of the information provided.

8. Symbol 10 is the model year.

9. Symbol 11 is the code of the manufacturing plant's division.

10. Symbols 12-17 - serial number.

It is important to understand that the model year and calendar year do not coincide. The manufacturer has the right to indicate the model year based on their own preferences.

How can a VIN code help when buying a car?

Before purchasing, a potential buyer must "punch" the car code. This way, you can find out the history of the car from the moment of manufacture. Pay attention to such information as:

1. Number of completed purchase and sale transactions.

2. Information about the documents issued for the vehicle.

3. Diagnostic procedures, maintenance and repair work.

4. History of road traffic accidents.

5. Sensor readings, mileage information, etc.

You also need to make sure that the vehicle is not under arrest or pledged. These are completely reasonable precautions.

How does the VIN code help you choose the right spare part?

The code is indispensable when replacing spare parts. Using the VIN code, you can accurately determine the number of the required component. To find the most suitable and, no less importantly, original part, you need to use the information provided by the manufacturer. Spare parts are manufactured in accordance with the characteristics of the car.

It happens that the purchased part does not match the parameters of the car. The main reasons why this happens:

1. The manufacturing country produces parts in a manner that does not comply with generally accepted standards.

2. The part was not purchased from the manufacturer, i.e. it is not original.

3. Vehicles in different countries may have significant differences in configuration (for example, early and late models have different parameters).

The required spare part can be accurately determined for Japanese cars produced after 2000 and for European cars manufactured after 2005.

To avoid problems when choosing parts, you can contact specialists. Specify the data about the car and serial numbers of parts that have been successfully used before. If a spare part with the appropriate parameters is not found from the "native" manufacturer, you can select a high-quality analogue from another.