Where Is the VIN Number on a Car?

A car’s VIN number (or just “VIN”) can decode certain information about a vehicle. You’ll need to utilize the VIN at some point during as a new or used vehicle owner in St. Louis. For instance, you want to order an oil filter to perform a DIY oil change. Our parts department will need your car’s VIN number to make sure we have the correct part for your make and model.

Every new and used vehicle on St. Charles roads and beyond has a VIN. Where is the VIN number on a car? What is a VIN number? The experts at Weber Chevrolet Co. have all of the details thanks to our handy guide.

Where Is the VIN Number on a Car Located?

Look Where the Dashboard, Windshield & Hood Meet

1. Stand outside of your vehicle.
2. Head to the front.
3. Direct your gaze to the driver’s side.
4. See where the dashboard, windshield, and hood meet.
5. View the car’s VIN number through the glass of the windshield. It should be permanently imprinted with a series of letters and numbers on a small tab.

On the Driver’s Door Frame Where It Latches

1. Open the driver’s door.
2. Look where the door latches to the frame (the non-hinged side).
3. View the permanent label on the doorpost that shows the car’s VIN number.

What Is a VIN Number?

VIN stands for “vehicle identification number.” You may need to utilize the VIN for several situations as a vehicle owner. Have your VIN ready when:

• Registering your car, truck, or SUV with MO
• Examining vehicle history reports to see maintenance and ownership information
• Finding out if your vehicle is under recall
• Making warranty claims for repairs
• Completing police reports if there is theft or damage
• Buying insurance coverage with a new insurance provider or adding a vehicle to your policy
• Ordering OEM parts and accessories
• Scheduling service for oil changes, brakes, tires, a battery, and more
• Applying for financing to get an auto loan to go towards a purchase
• Selling your vehicle to a private party or dealership like Weber Chevrolet Co.
• Trading your vehicle into a dealership to buy a newer model

What Are VINs Made Of?

VINs comprise 17 characters, both letters and numbers, in specific sequences. No two vehicles have the same VIN, even if they are the exact same make, model, and year. Think of a VIN just like your Social Security number, DNA, fingerprints, and personality that are unique to you.

If you own a classic or vintage car made in 1980 or before, it has a VIN shorter than 17 characters. See an example of what a VIN looks like, in this case for a new Chevy Tahoe:

1GNSKNKD2RR112265

Using the VIN, you can decode the manufacturer, specifications, features, and more, of any vehicle.

What Do the Different Characters in a VIN Mean?

Each character identifies a specific aspect of the vehicle you’re researching:

• Character 1: Country of Origin
• Character 2: Manufacturer
• Character 3: Vehicle Type or Manufacturing Division
• Character 4: Body Type
• Character 5: Engine
• Character 6: Series
• Character 7: Restraint Type
• Character 8: Model
• Character 9: Check Digit to detect a valid VIN
• Character 10: Model Year
• Character 11: Plant
• Last Six Characters: Car’s Serial Number

Test Drive a New Vehicle at Weber Chevrolet Co.

Congratulations! You know a bit about VINs. Ready to try out a new or certified pre-owned vehicle near St. Peters? Contact us or call (314) 325-8860 to schedule a test drive. We think you’ll love our selection!