Since the 1981 model year, vehicles sold in North America carry a standardised seventeen-character VIN. No two vehicles share one. It is the key that every record in this glossary is filed against.
The code is structured rather than random. The first three characters identify the manufacturer and the country of origin. Characters four through eight describe the model, body style, engine and restraint system. The ninth is a check digit calculated from the others. The tenth encodes the model year and the eleventh the assembly plant. The last six are the sequential serial number.
The letters I, O and Q never appear, because they are too easily confused with the digits one and zero.
Why it matters
Every history check, recall notice and title record is tied to the VIN. One mistyped character returns a different vehicle entirely, or nothing at all.
How to check it
The VIN appears at the base of the windscreen on the driver's side, on a sticker in the driver's door jamb, and on the title and insurance documents. All of them should match.
Does this apply to the car you are looking at?
Run the VIN or plate and see what is actually on record.
Related terms
Definitions are general guidance, not legal advice. Title rules, total loss thresholds and inspection requirements are set by each state and change over time, so confirm the position with the motor vehicle agency for the state the vehicle is titled in before relying on it.