Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

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What Is a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?

vehicle identification numberMany people wonder, “What is a vehicle identification number?” A vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-character serial number used to uniquely identify a car. Think of it as a fingerprint, because no two VIN numbers are alike, even if the cars are the same make and model.
 
While manufacturers had been stamping identification numbers on cars since the 1950s, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) standardized this process for motor vehicles in 1981. Now, the 17 characters of your car’s vehicle identification number all have a specific meaning.
 
In order to get a car insurance policy through the AARP® Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford,1 you’ll need your car’s VIN number. Car insurance companies use this to look up car records and help calculate car insurance rates.
 

How Do I Look Up a VIN number?

You can find your VIN number in one of four locations in your car:
 
  • The interior dashboard on the driver’s side
  • Under the hood
  • The front-end of the frame
  • Driver’s side door
You can also find the VIN number on your car’s:
 
  • Vehicle title
  • Registration
  • Auto insurance documents
Depending on when you bought your car, some dealerships also use VIN etching. This puts the number on each window and windshield to prevent theft.

Where Do I Find My Vehicle Identification Number?

Check these 7 spots to locate your VIN:
Interior dashboard on the driver's side
Underside of the hood
Front end of the frame
Driver's side door
Vehicle Identification Number Auto documents such as:
5 Title
6 Registration
7 Auto Insurance
What Is Vehicle Identification Number
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How To Decode the Vehicle Identification Number

While your car’s 17-digit VIN may look like a random set of numbers and letters, there is a meaning behind each of the numbers and letters.
 
The first three characters represent the world manufacturer identifier (WMI).
 
  • The first number or letter shows the country that assembled your car
  • The second character relates to your car manufacturer
  • When used with the first two characters, the third digit can identify your car type
The next group of six characters describes your car.
 
  • Characters four through eight tell your car’s model, body type, transmission and engine
  • Next is a “check digit,” which validates the VIN is real
  • Then a letter that corresponds to a model year
  • That’s followed by the plant code that put together your car
The final six digits are numbers your car receives on the assembly line when it’s made.

VIN Decoder

Slide the bar through the VIN to see what its letters and numbers represent.
2
H
G
BH41J
X
M
N
109186
First Number/Letter
Shows the country that assembled your car.
Second Number/Letter
Relates to your car's manufacturer.
Third Number/Letter
Identifies your car's type when it's used with the first two characters. These first three characters represent your car’s WMI code.
Fourth through Eighth Numbers/Letters
Tells the car's model, body type, transmission and engine.
Ninth Number/Letter
This is the "check digit" which validates the VIN is real.
Tenth Number/Letter
Corresponds with your car's model year.
Eleventh Number/Letter
Identifies the plant that put your car together.
Last Six Numbers/Letters
Your car receives these six digits on the assembly line when it's made.
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What Is a Car VIN Number Used For?

What is a vehicle identification numberWhen
you buy a car, you can use the VIN to look up a CARFAX report and review the vehicle history. A VIN number isn’t just helpful for you, it’s also valuable to insurance companies and law enforcement agencies. With a VIN number, you can:
 
  • Find any previous owners of a motor vehicle
  • Learn about accidents and repairs
  • See if there’s a manufacturer’s recall
  • Identify stolen vehicles

How Car Insurance Companies Use the VIN Number

What is a vehicle identification number vinCar insurance companies look at several factors to determine your policy cost, such as where you live and your driving history. You’ll likely have to tell them your vehicle’s make, model and year when you’re getting a quote. But, if you also give the VIN number, you can get a more accurate quote.
 
With a VIN number, a car insurance company can make sure someone isn’t trying to insure a stolen car. Auto insurers also use VINs to review car features, which can save you money on your policy. For example, if your car has safety features and anti-theft devices, you may receive a discount.
 
If you’re in the early stages of getting auto insurance, you can use a car insurance calculator to give you an idea of how much coverage you may need. When you’re ready for a quote, we’re here to help you get the right protection.
 
What is a car vin number used forWe’re an insurance company backed by over 200 years of experience and we’re the only national auto and home insurance program endorsed by AARP. If you have questions about other insurance terms, check out our glossary or call our team.
 
Get a car insurance quote today or call 888-546-9099 and learn how our insurance coverage can help protect you and your loved ones on the road.
Summaries of coverages and policy features are for informational purposes only. In the event of loss, the actual terms and conditions set forth in your policy will determine your coverage.
 
AARP and its affiliates are not insurers. Paid endorsement. The Hartford pays royalty fees to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. AARP membership is required for Program eligibility in most states.
 
The AARP Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford is underwritten by Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates, One Hartford Plaza, Hartford, CT 06155. It is underwritten in AZ, MI and MN by Hartford Insurance Company of the Southeast; in CA, by Hartford Underwriters Insurance Company; in WA, by Hartford Casualty Insurance Company; in MA, by Trumbull Insurance Company; and in PA, by Nutmeg Insurance Company and Twin City Fire Insurance Company. The AARP Home Insurance Program from The Hartford is underwritten by Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates, One Hartford Plaza, Hartford, CT 06155. It is underwritten in AZ, MI and MN by Hartford Insurance Company of the Southeast; in CA by Property and Casualty Insurance Company of Hartford; in WA, by Trumbull Insurance Company; in MA, by Trumbull Insurance Company, Sentinel Insurance Company, Hartford Insurance Company of the Midwest, and Hartford Accident and Indemnity Company; and in PA, by Nutmeg Insurance Company. Home product is not available in all areas, including the state of FL. Savings, benefits and coverages may vary and some applicants may not qualify. The Program is currently unavailable in Canada and U.S. Territories or possessions.
 
1 In Texas, the Auto Program is underwritten by Redpoint County Mutual Insurance Company through Hartford of the Southeast General Agency, Inc. Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates are not financially responsible for insurance products underwritten and issued by Redpoint County Mutual Insurance Company. The Home Program is underwritten by Hartford Insurance Company of the Southeast.
 
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