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What’s a Vehicle Identification Number?

At some point, no matter who your insurance company is, you’ll need to figure out what your car’s vehicle identification number is.

What is a VIN?

Your car’s vehicle identification number (VIN) is what is used to track your specific vehicle, whether that’s for a recall, registration, warranty, a claim, theft or for your car insurance coverage.

Think of the VIN as your car’s social security number. The VIN serves as the car’s unique DNA, as no two cars can have the same VIN. All vehicle’s made since 1981 have a VIN of 17 numbers and capital letters that serve as a unique identifier for the car. A VIN displays your car’s unique features, specifications and manufacturer.  

Where can I find my VIN? 

A car’s VIN can be found on the dashboard on the driver’s side of the vehicle. The simplest way to find it is to stand outside your car on the driver’s side and look at the corner of the dashboard where it meets the windshield.  

If you don’t see the VIN there, try opening your driver’s side door and look on the frame or your car closest to the handle side of the car door. Usually, you’ll also find your VIN displayed here as well. 

Still having problems finding it? You can also check a past insurance policy, on your vehicle’s registration or right on your vehicle’s title. 

While not the most fun thing to go on a scavenger hunt for, your VIN is critical to provide you with the most accurate car insurance quote and to assure you’re getting the most accurate coverage for your (and your car’s) needs. 

Please Note: This is meant only to provide general information about commonly available insurance coverages. Except as expressly noted, this content is not intended to describe any specific coverage offered by MAPFRE Insurance. No coverage is provided, bound or guaranteed by this article. Available coverages, credits and discounts vary from state to state and are subject to eligibility criteria and policy terms/conditions, which will control in the event of conflict between this article and your insurance policy. For information about your policy, please review your individual policy contract and speak with your insurance representative.

MAPFRE Insurance® is a brand and service mark of MAPFRE U.S.A. Corp. and its affiliates, American Commerce Insurance CompanySM (Cal. COA 4928-8); Citation Insurance CompanySM; The Commerce Insurance CompanySM; Commerce West Insurance CompanySM (Cal. COA 1372-2); and MAPFRE Insurance CompanySM (Cal. COA 3039-5). Not all products available in all states.

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