How to Spot an Incorrect VIN

In the automotive world today, a vehicle identification number (VIN) is essential when buying a vehicle, whether new or used. VIN is one of the most essential details used in verifying a vehicle. A VIN is a 17-alphanumeric code that is like the vehicle’s fingerprint and uniquely identifies a car, truck, or motorcycle and gives essential information about the vehicle, including its manufacturer, model, and model year. However, an incorrect VIN can lead to serious issues, such as difficulties in registering vehicles, obtaining accurate vehicle history reports, and complications with insurance claims. In this post, we’ll explore the steps to detect an incorrect VIN so as not to fall victim to purchasing a stolen vehicle.

Steps to Spot Incorrect VIN

1. Verify the Length and Characters

• A standard VIN should always be 17 alphanumeric characters long (for vehicles manufactured after 1981), consisting of both letters and numbers. If you encounter a VIN that is shorter or longer, it’s an immediate red flag.
• Check out for frequent confusing characters such as “O” vs. “0” or “I” vs. “1.”

2. Use the VIN Decoder

• Use a VIN decoder service such as Autovin to break down the characters and verify the information.
• Just by entering through the Autovin website, simply enter the VIN and proceed to check the details of the vehicle, such as the manufacturer, model, and year, to ensure they align with the vehicle.
• If the decoded information doesn’t match the vehicle in question, it indicates the VIN might be incorrect or altered.

3. Cross-Check with Vehicle Documents

• Ensure that the VIN on the vehicle matches the one on official documents such as the vehicle license, registration, and title record paper.
• It could be an error in documentation, or it could be a deliberate attempt to disguise the vehicle’s identity.

4. Inspect the VIN Plate

• Ensure that you inspect the VIN plate closely. The VIN can be found in different locations on a vehicle, such as on the dashboard near the windshield, on the driver’s side door jamb, and in the engine bay.
• Examine the VIN plate for signs of tampering, such as scratches, uneven characters, glue residue, or other signs of alteration.
• This could indicate that it has been replaced or altered.

5. Run a VIN Check or Vehicle History Report

• Utilize services like Autovin or other VIN check providers to run a complete background check. These services can provide comprehensive history reports, including title records, accident histories, and salvaged records.
• If the VIN returns no results or flags serious issues, it’s a sign that the VIN might be wrong.

Conclusion

Ensuring the accuracy of a vehicle’s VIN is essential for a safe and legal purchase. An incorrect VIN can lead to a lot of issues, including legal issues, difficulties in reselling the vehicle, and potential safety hazards. By following these steps, you can detect an incorrect VIN and protect yourself from fraud or mistakes.

We provide vehicle history reports at affordable rates for your peace of mind. Feel free to stop in and take a look at our report Autovin. Send a mail to info@autovin.com.ng or call +234(0) 915 1858 628.