Where Can You Find a Car VIN Number?

If you need to find your car VIN number to look up a recall in St. Louis or give insurance information in St. Charles, there are a few places that you can look. Your car VIN number is usually located on the corner of the dashboard where it meets the windshield. You can also pop open the driver’s side door and look at the spot where the door latches. But, what is a VIN number, and why is it so important? Get to know the basics with Suntrup Automotive Group, and be sure to get in touch with us in St. Louis for more automotive tips and tricks.

What Is a VIN Number?

So, what is a VIN number? VIN standard for “vehicle identification number” or a 17-character code that gives valuable information about your car. No two VINs are the same, so this number is used to confirm the identity of your car in many cases. Here is an example:

1G1YZ23J9P5803427

Though your car VIN number may seem like a jumble of numbers and letters, it is actually a long and complicated code. It reveals your car’s manufacturer, specifications, features, and more. You’ll use this number for things like registration information, active recalls, warranty claims, theft, and insurance coverage.

What Do the Different Characters in a VIN Mean?

Every character in your car VIN number delivers a different piece of information. From the manufacturer’s name to the engine type to the model year, you might be surprised by just how much you can learn from this string of letters and numbers! Here is the breakdown of what your car VIN number means:

• Character 1: Country
• Character 2: Manufacturer
• Character 3: Vehicle Type
• Character 4: Body Type
• Character 5: Engine
• Character 6: Series
• Character 7: Restraint
• Character 8: Model
• Character 9: Check Digit
• Character 10: Model Year
• Character 11: Plant
• Last Six Characters: Car’s Serial Number

Learn More About Your Car’s VIN at Suntrup Automotive Group

Whether you need help finding your VIN or help with another service, the team at Suntrup Automotive Group is here to help. We’re located in St. Louis, neighboring Fenton, for all of your automotive needs. Contact us with any questions and learn more service tips and tricks with our experts.