VIN Decoder
What is a VIN number?
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique code assigned to motor vehicles that describe several features once decoded. A VIN essentially serves as fingerprint, as no two cars will have the same VIN number. These range from basic info like the manufacturer and engine type – all the way to specifics like the year your vehicle was made and where it was assembled.
Decoding a VIN number can provide information to be used in a number of applications, both for personal and business use. It is ideal for sourcing parts, running car diagnostics, finding out the title history, sales and more.
Where to find my VIN number
Where your VIN number is varies depending on your car make and manufacturer. The most common locations are on the drivers side dash or in the door jamb. It can also be found in your vehicles insurance and or title (DMV) records.
If you still have issues finding where your number is, we suggest contacting your car dealership or the manufacturer.
What VIN looks like
Each character has a special meaning: Where the vehicle was made; who manufactured it; the make and model; and other unique and identifying features.
For example, a VIN number beginning with the number 1 indicates that the vehicle was manufactured in the United States, whereas a VIN starting with the letter J means the car was made in Japan.
When copying down your vehicle’s VIN, it is important to note that the letters I or O will never appear in your VIN. These will be represented as the numbers 1 and 0.
VIN Importance
Using an automobile’s VIN is the most accurate way to describe a vehicle and is widely used in a variety of applications, including sourcing parts, diagnostics, title history, vehicle sales and more.
The current VIN format was standardized in 1981 and consists of 17 characters, excluding the letters I, O, and Q (to avoid confusion with the numerals 0 and 1).
CarMD VIN Decoder API
If you are looking for a reliable, straight forward VIN Decoder API, then the CarMD VIN API is perfect for you. If you are interested in providing this through your own app or software platforms, CarMD provides an extensive range of APIs that are free to try. Check out our APIs.
CarMD APIs provide data on vehicle maintenance, future breakdowns, fixes for vehicle issues, repair costs, TSBs, safety recalls, and warranty information. Try it out for free today. Try it out for free today.
Check out our other services!
VIN Decoder (view API)
Get the year make model and engine type of a VIN.
OBD Port Locator (view API)
Get the location to your OBD port.
Get your own year make model dropdown list in your service.
Vehicle API Descriptions
Click the link above to view a list with descriptions of all the CarMD APIs.
Here is a quick list. Click the links below to try them for free.