🔍 VIN decoder — free vehicle check

Enter the 17-character VIN — get make, model, model year, engine and assembly plant. Free, no signup.

Data: open NHTSA database (USA). Results are cached. · sample VIN

📖 What is a VIN

The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique 17-character code assigned to every vehicle. It reveals the manufacturer, plant, model year and specs. In Germany you find it in the Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil I (field E) and on the vehicle itself.

📍 Where to find the VIN

Bottom-left of the windshield (visible from outside)
On the driver-side door jamb or under the hood
In the registration document (Zulassungsbescheinigung, field E)
In the insurance policy and service booklet

🧩 VIN structure

WMI
1–3
maker & country

VDS
4–9
model, body, engine

VIS
10–17
year, plant, serial no.

Characters 1–3 (WMI) = manufacturer and country. Characters 4–9 (VDS) = vehicle data, the 9th is a check digit. Characters 10–17 (VIS): 10th = model year, 11th = plant, rest = serial number.

❓ FAQ

Is the VIN check free?

Yes. The decoder uses the open NHTSA database and shows factory data free of charge, no signup needed.

Why are some fields empty?

Manufacturers disclose different amounts of data. European and Japanese brands often provide fewer details than US brands.

Is this a vehicle history report?

No — the decoder only shows factory specs. For accident history, mileage and liens use dedicated reports (carfax, autoDNA).

Does it work for motorcycles and trucks?

The VIN standard applies to all vehicles, but data depth depends on the manufacturer.