VIN guides
Where to find your VIN
Find your vehicle identification number on the vehicle or its paperwork, then enter it in the free decoder.
Start at the driver’s side dashboard
Stand outside the vehicle and look through the lower corner of the windshield on the driver’s side. On many vehicles, the VIN appears on a small plate where the dashboard meets the glass. Copy all 17 characters carefully.
Check the door jamb or paperwork
Look for the vehicle certification label in the driver’s door area, or check the vehicle’s registration and insurance documents. Locations can differ by manufacturer. Your owner’s manual can point you to the labels on your specific model.
Compare before you decode
If you are researching a used vehicle, compare the VIN on the vehicle with its paperwork. A decoder can identify the vehicle’s reported factory specifications, but it cannot establish ownership or prove that a VIN plate is genuine. Investigate discrepancies before relying on the result.
Keep personal information out of your lookup
You only need the VIN. Do not upload registration documents, your name, an address, or insurance information. Enter the characters directly into the decoder. Modern VINs do not contain the letters I, O, or Q.