Ever been told, “Just check the VIN”?
And you’re like… “Sure, but where do I even find it?”
Totally valid question—and one that can save you from a big mistake when buying a used car. Especially if you’re planning to run a VIN check through autocardetails or autocardetails.uk.
Let’s break it down in simple, real-world language.
What Is a VIN Number?
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is like your car’s DNA.
It’s a 17-character combo of letters and numbers that gives you all the details about a vehicle—where it was built, what model it is, if it’s been in an accident, and more.
With a quick check on autocardetails or autocardetails.uk, you can use this number to uncover the full history of any vehicle—so knowing where to find it is step one.
Top 5 Places to Find the VIN on a Car
You don’t need tools or a mechanic. Just check these common places:
1. Dashboard (Driver’s Side)
Stand outside the car on the driver’s side and look at the base of the windshield. You should see the VIN stamped on a little metal plate.
2. Driver’s Door Frame
Open the driver’s door and look at the edge of the door or the frame around it. There’s usually a sticker with the VIN printed on it.
3. Under the Bonnet
Lift the hood and check the front of the engine block or the firewall (the part that separates the engine from the interior). The VIN might be stamped there.
4. Vehicle Documents
Can’t get to the car right now? No problem. The VIN is also on your registration papers, insurance documents, and vehicle title.
5. Inside the Boot or Glovebox
Some cars have extra VIN labels inside the glove compartment or under the spare tyre area in the boot. Worth a peek!
Quick Tip: Make Sure All VINs Match
If you’re buying a used car, always compare the VIN from the car itself with the one on the V5C logbook, service records, and MOT certificate.
If anything doesn’t match, run a VIN check on autocardetails.uk or autocardetails right away. Better safe than sorry.
Why It’s Important to Check the VIN
Once you’ve found the VIN, you can use it to:
- Spot accident or damage history
- Reveal title issues like salvage or rebuild status
- Confirm the true mileage
- Check if it was ever reported stolen
- See if it’s had flood or fire damage
- Verify if it was a rental or fleet vehicle
And you can do all of that quickly and affordably at autocardetails.uk or autocardetails.
Final Thoughts: Know the VIN, Know the Car
Before you hand over any cash or sign anything, make sure you find and check the VIN.
It takes two minutes and could save you from serious regret.
The easiest way to get the full picture?
Run a detailed report with autocardetails.com or autocardetails.uk—your budget-friendly solution for reliable vehicle history checks.
Have a Question?
Still struggling to find your VIN?
Drop a comment below or message us—our team at autocardetails.uk is here to help!
And hey, if this post helped you out, give it a share with someone who’s shopping for a used car