VIN Check

When buying a used car, it's essential to do your due diligence and ensure you're getting what you're paying for. That's where a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) check comes in.

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VIN Check

What is a VIN Check?

But where do you even find the VIN, and what does it tell you? At Motorscan, we’ve got you covered with our guides and articles on all things VIN. We’ll walk you through how and where to find the VIN, what information it contains, and why checking it before purchasing is crucial. With our expert insights and helpful tips, we’ll also explain what a VIN check report is and how it can give you peace of mind when buying a used car.

Latest guides about VIN Check

VIN Check

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) check is a process used to verify the history and condition of a vehicle. It typically involves checking the VIN, a unique code assigned to each vehicle, against databases and records to gather information about the vehicle's past, such as previous owners, accident history, title status, recalls, and other relevant details.

VIN checks are commonly used by buyers, sellers, and insurance companies to assess the condition and legitimacy of a vehicle before making a purchase or insuring it.

February 18, 2023

Where to find the VIN Number on a Car

Unfortunately, there are plenty of unscrupulous car dealers eager to take your hard-earned money in exchange for a vehicle that looks genuine but isn't quite what it seems on closer inspection. So, Motorscan wants to help you avoid buying a cloned vehicle with our guide on finding the VIN number on your next used car and why it's crucial to check!

April 12, 2022

VIN report - How to do a VIN report for a used car?

Have you been looking out for an appropriate used vehicle in the market? You have possibly considered several motors and carried out checks and inspections to make certain you are getting a truthful deal. But did you get the VIN report?

April 12, 2022

VIN Report – How is a VIN check done and what does it tell you?

Have you been looking out for an appropriate used vehicle in the market? You have possibly considered several motors and carried out checks and inspections to make certain you are getting a truthful deal. But did you get the VIN report?

March 29, 2022

VIN REPORT – What is a VIN Report?

Have you been looking out for an appropriate used vehicle in the market? You have possibly considered several motors and carried out checks and inspections to make certain you are getting a truthful deal. But did you get the VIN report?

Frequently asked questions about VIN Check

How do I check a VIN number UK?

In the UK, you can check a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) using motorscan.

We allow you to enter the registration number to obtain a comprehensive report on a vehicle’s history, including previous owners, outstanding finance, mileage, accident history, and more. These services usually require payment for their reports. You can then enter the VIN to match this against our records

What each digit means in a VIN?

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique code assigned to each vehicle, and each digit in a VIN carries specific information. Here’s a brief overview:

  1. Country of origin: The first digit in a VIN represents the country where the vehicle was manufactured.
  2. Manufacturer: The second and third digits represent the manufacturer or the brand of the vehicle.
  3. Vehicle type: The fourth digit indicates the type of vehicle, such as a passenger car, truck, or motorcycle.
  4. Engine type: The fifth digit provides information about the type of engine installed in the vehicle.
  5. Vehicle features: The sixth to eighth digits represent various features of the vehicle, including body style, trim level, and other specific details.
  6. Production year: The ninth digit indicates the year the vehicle was manufactured.
  7. Assembly plant: The tenth digit represents the plant where the vehicle was manufactured.
  8. Vehicle identification number: The eleventh digit is a unique identifier that varies by manufacturer.
  9. Check digit: The twelfth digit is a calculated digit used for error detection in the VIN.
  10. Model year: The thirteenth digit indicates the model year of the vehicle.
  11. Production sequence: The last digits, usually 14-17, represent the production sequence number, which is a unique identifier assigned to each vehicle as it is produced.

Each digit in a VIN carries important information about the vehicle’s origin, manufacturer, features, and production details, making it a useful tool for vehicle identification and history checking purposes.

Published April 11, 2023 by Zoe Hicks | Last reviewed April 4, 2024 by Jonathan McDonald