What is a Vehicle Identification Number?

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a 17-character number that identifies the vehicle’s year, make, model, body style, engine size, and place of manufacture.
Beginning with the 1982 model year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration required that all over-the-road-vehicles sold must contain a 17-character VIN. This standard established a fixed VIN format.

The VIN is commonly found in the door frame of the front doors, on the vehicle’s engine, around the steering wheel, or on the dash near the window.

Auto dealers can use the VIN to see if the vehicle is involved with any recalls. By using the services of Carfax.com you can determine if the vehicle’s VIN is linked to flood damage, odometer fraud, or other problems. (Some states, however, don’t participate in VIN searches due to privacy issues.)

Article provided by CU Village.com through its Financial Resource Center content product.