How to find your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
The vehicle identification number (VIN) or chassis number is a unique code that includes the serial number by the automobile maker to identify individual automobiles and other motor vehicles.
The VIN is now standard on all on-the-road vehicles and components of the code mean certain things like: in what country was the vehicle made, the make and the model, etc. Putting the VIN on autos became standard practice in 1954 from the National Highway and Transit Safety Administration.
Where is my VIN located on my vehicle?
A situation could arise where you need to quickly locate the identification number on your vehicle. With a VIN number on every car, where should you look?
There a multiple places, both on and off your vehicle, that you can find and look up your VIN.
If you are on the road and do not have access to your car or truck’s documentation, look on the vehicle:
- At the base of your windshield near the driver's side
- On the car frame near the apparatus that holds the windshield wiper fluid
- Driver-side door post when the door latches
- Underneath the spare tire
Probably the easiest way to find the 17-digit number is to look at the dashboard on the driver’s side of the window by standing outside your vehicle. Then, look at the corner of the dashboard where it meets your windshield and find the 17-digit VIN number.
Where is my VIN located at home?
If you are at home and need to schedule an appointment for windshield repair services or auto service, take a look at these documents to locate your VIN:
- Vehicle’s title document
- The vehicle’s registration documentation
- Any insurance documents
- Body shop repair records
- Vehicle history report
- Owner's manual
When the time comes that you’re going to need your VIN number for an appointment or other service, remember there are multiple ways to find the number, both on the vehicle and off.
How is my VIN used?
There a numerous reasons why someone would need to know your VIN, for example, if there was a factory recall for a certain auto maker, this would allow the manufacturer to notify all consumers who have purchased a vehicle in that line about the defect or nature of the recall. It is much like the vehicle’s DNA, telling where and when the auto was made, as well as tracking if the vehicle has changed ownership so that those purchasing the vehicle can track the usage, repairs, and services rendered on the vehicle.
Knowing your VIN can be extremely useful when you need a windshield replacement because Safelite can acquire the specific parts for your car or truck. Some makes and models will differ in design year-to-year, so knowing your VIN or knowing where your VIN can be located is helpful for the windshield technicians in preparing to replace your windshield.
We use your VIN to determine the right piece of glass to get prior to your appointment. For all windshield repairs and replacements, have your VIN number ready and schedule service at a convenient time for you.