Have you been searching for a suitable used car in the auto market? You’ve probably seen a variety of vehicles and carried out different tests and inspections to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. But did you perform the VIN check? Why is this number so crucial, and what does it reveal? But first, it’s essential to know what the number is and where you can find it. Let’s find out:
Why is the VIN number check important?
Have you been searching for a suitable used car in the auto market? You have probably seen a variety of vehicles and carried out different tests and inspections to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
The true identity of the car is revealed only when you check a car Vehicle Identification Number. As you know, the used car scam is high in the market.
Car manufacturers and vehicle registration agencies hold these databases of numbers to identify and validate the car accurately.
A VIN check is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from scams and risky purchases. Here’s why a VIN check is essential for used car buyers:
- Uncover Hidden Histories
- Reveals past accidents, flood damage, or theft records.
- Protects you from buying a car with structural or safety issues.
- Avoid Odometer Fraud
- Confirms the car’s mileage history.
- Prevents overpaying for a car with tampered odometer readings.
- Detect Outstanding Finance
- Checks if the car has unpaid loans attached to it.
- Helps you avoid legal complications or repossession.
- Prevent Buying Stolen Cars
- Flags if the vehicle has been reported as stolen.
- Saves you from legal trouble and losing the car.
- Avoid Cloned Vehicles
- Identifies duplicate VINs used for car cloning scams.
- Protects against purchasing a fraudulent vehicle.
The VIN is important because it helps you confirm if the car dealer is selling you a new or old car (or if there is any scam involved.)
Why should you check your car VIN?
When you intend to buy a used car, You need to check that the printed VIN number on the vehicle registration document matches the number stamped into the vehicle’s chassis. And also matches the number on any other plates located on the car.
There is a chance that you can’t find the VIN; maybe you are looking in the wrong place.
Maximizing Vehicle Safety with a VIN Check
You can maximise car safety by finding important information like stolen checks, accident histories, recalls, and title problems using a free VIN check. This makes it easier to spot possible safety issues and steer clear of cars with hidden damage or flaws. When making a purchase, you can feel more at ease knowing that a car has not been changed and meets safety regulations by having its VIN checked.
Thinking of buying a used car?
Conduct a quick and reliable VIN check today to uncover the car’s full history and buy with confidence.
🚗Get your VIN number check today!
What happens if a vehicle has no VIN number?
It is a red flag when a few scammers might remove the VIN. Mostly “no VIN” possible reasons are the cars have the modified often or overwritten or removed it. If you don’t find the VIN, it is better to enquire about the seller. When you find irrelevant reasons or suspicious activities, walk away from the deal.
What if the VIN number of the car differs from the logbook?
Don’t buy the car if the VIN doesn’t match the vehicle registration document. The dodgy seller tries to copy the VIN, apply for duplicate papers, and produce forged documents to hide the car’s identity. It is illegal to sell the car by concealing stolen cars or selling them without scraping. Hence, a mismatched VIN number signifies something wrong with the used car.
Read how to tell the logbook is genuine.
What is the difference between a VIN, chassis and an engine number?
The vehicle VIN is called its chassis number. You can find the VIN, which is stamped on the chassis of the car. The engine number denotes what size and power output that engine produces.
It is better to keep the engine and chassis number different. You can get the new engine number alongside the existing chassis number when the engine blows up & needs a replacement without scrapping the car.
Note: You can’t replace or renew the vehicle identification number.
Learn when you may need new VIN number with DVLA here!
Answering your questions
Can I find my VIN number online for free?
Finding your full VIN number online for free is difficult, as most UK services charge a fee. You can check your VIN on your V5C logbook, insurance documents, or manufacturer’s online portal if available. However, paid services typically provide the last five digits of your VIN number.
Is there any way to change your vehicle’s VIN?
It is rare where some vehicles need a VIN change like kit cars or rebuild. DVLA offers the new VIN when your vehicle passes its assessment. Later, you need to register the vehicle to confirm the vehicle is stamped with the correct VIN.
