Vehicle identification number

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Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique code used by the automotive industry to identify individual motor vehicles, towed vehicles, motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds as defined in ISO 3779 (content and structure) and ISO 4030 (location and attachment).

Overview

A VIN is composed of 17 characters (digits and capital letters) that act as a unique identifier for the vehicle. A VIN displays the car's unique features, specifications, and manufacturer. The VIN can be used to track recalls, registrations, warranty claims, thefts, and insurance coverage.

History

The VIN system was first introduced in 1954 in the United States. However, it wasn't until 1981 that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) standardized the format to the current 17-character VIN. This standardization was aimed at ensuring consistency and the easy identification of vehicles.

Format

The 17 characters of the VIN are divided into three sections:

1. The World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) - the first three characters that identify the vehicle's manufacturer.
2. The Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) - characters four through nine that provide vehicle type, model, and body style information.
3. The Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS) - the last eight characters that provide the serial number and information on the production year.

Special Characters

Certain characters, such as O (o), I (i), and Q (q) are not used in VINs to avoid confusion with numerals 0, 1, and 9.

Decoding

Each character in a VIN has a specific meaning, and the combination of characters can be used to verify the authenticity of a vehicle, ensuring that the vehicle has not been stolen or illegally modified.

Uses

VINs are used worldwide for a wide range of purposes, including:

• Tracking the vehicle's history in terms of accidents, repairs, and ownership.
• Identifying vehicles for recall purposes.
• Helping to prevent vehicle theft and fraud.

Regulation

The use and format of VINs are regulated by various international standards and national laws to ensure consistency and reliability in vehicle identification.

See Also

• Automobile safety
• Car theft
• Vehicle registration

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