How to Check a Vehicle Specification by VIN Number

by Meaghan Ellis

Vehicle identification numbers, also referred to as VINs, have the same purpose as Social Security numbers and bar codes. VINs are 17-digit codes that serve as unique identifiers for vehicles of all types. Cars, trucks and motorcycles that are used as both personal and or commercial vehicles have a VIN. These numbers are significant because every specification there is to know about a vehicle can be found through them. No VIN is duplicated or used multiple times, which makes finding a vehicle easier.

Step 1

Go to an automotive resource website (See Resources), and type the 17-digit VIN characters in the blank data form provided when the site opens in a new browser window. All letters in the VIN should be capitalized.

Step 2

Click on the link beside or below the data form designated for the VIN. Your browser will then be redirected to the results for the VIN you provided. In most cases, the results will display the vehicle's year, make and model at the top of the screen.

Step 3

Click on the result link next to the exact year, make and model of the vehicle for the VIN you provided.

Step 4

Purchase a vehicle report to obtain detailed information on the vehicle's specific location, accident reports, maintenance records and ownership history.

Step 5

Type your credit card information in the blank data forms provided that will be provided on the site. You may be asked to provide a cardholder's name, billing and email addresses, card type, number and expiration date to process your order. The security code may also be requested, depending on which site you use.

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