Finding Your Car’s VIN for Free

November 21, 2023 by Zoe Hicks – 2 mins read

Explore the world of VINs – the automotive fingerprint. These alphanumeric codes are invaluable for registration and history checks, so we’ll guide you through locating a VIN for free, revealing where to find them, and we’ll unlock the secrets of these mystifying codes that can distinguish the car of your dreams from potential clones, ensuring you make the right choice!

Step into the world of automotive intrigue as we unveil the secrets of the vehicle identification number (VIN). This somewhat mysterious alphanumerical code holds a wealth of information about a vehicle, so understanding what it is and how to find it can be super handy. So, with this in mind, Motorscan has been exploring the common VIN-related questions, and we reveal the covert spots where VINs are hiding in a car. But most importantly for your wallet, we’ll guide you on unveiling this crucial information without costing you a penny!

What’s in this guide

What is a VIN number?

A VIN is a unique code assigned to every motor vehicle when it’s manufactured. Effectively, it serves as the vehicle’s fingerprint, containing specific information about its make, model, year of production, country of origin, and other essential details. The VIN is used for various purposes, including vehicle registration, tracking recalls, and verifying a car’s history and authenticity, so it plays a crucial role in the automotive industry by providing a standardised way to identify and trace vehicles.

Can VINs be changed?

Changing a VIN is illegal and considered fraudulent. The VIN is a crucial identifier for a vehicle, and altering it is a criminal offence associated with various illegal activities such as car theft, fraud, or hiding a vehicle’s true history.

How can I find my car VIN number for free?

Typically, you can find the VIN in several locations on a vehicle, depending on the car manufacturer, as well as the logbook. Common places to look for the VIN are:

Dashboard: The VIN is often visible through the windshield on the left-hand driver’s side of the dashboard, near the base of the windshield on the dash.
Driver’s Door Jamb: Search for a sticker or metal plate on the driver’s side door jamb, as the VIN is often displayed there. The door jamb is the area where the door latches when closed.
Under the Bonnet: In some vehicles, you may find the VIN on various parts under the hood, such as the front of the engine compartment or radiator support.
Vehicle Frame: On some older vehicles, you may find the VIN stamped directly onto the vehicle’s frame. It’s less common but still possible.
Vehicle Registration Documents: The VIN number can be found on the vehicle’s log book (V5C), which the DVLA issues to the vehicle keeper.
Vehicle Handbook: Some car manufacturers include the VIN in the owner’s manual or service booklet.

Is there a way to tell me a VIN using a car registration?

Unfortunately, due to strict DVLA disclosure agreements which apply to all car history check companies, we cannot disclose a full VIN, which can otherwise lead to VIN cloning by car criminals. However, we can reveal the last five digits of a VIN, helping you determine a genuine vehicle for sale. And, if you know the full VIN, we can match the number to a car so you have confirmation that the vehicle you’re interested in hasn’t been cloned!