How to Locate an Automobile's Original Window Sticker
by Al Derr
Car dealers are required by law to attach a window sticker to every new car they sell. These stickers, also known as Monroney Labels, include information such as the car's original price, dealer, standard options and optional equipment. All car owners can benefit from having the original window sticker since it provides useful information about the car. For car enthusiasts, having the original window sticker or a close replica is especially important since this is one of the first things show judges look for when examining vehicles.
Step 1
Go to the dealership where the car was originally sold. The dealer can sometimes give you a copy of the original window sticker if you provide your VIN, proof of ownership and the name of the original owner.
Step 2
Contact the port facility where the car was delivered to the dealer. The dealer who sold you the car may be able to provide you with information about the port where the car was originally shipped. If you have an import car, the car's window sticker is processed at the port where it is delivered. Sometimes the port will keep a copy of the sticker.
Step 3
Search online auction websites such as eBay for original window stickers for your car's make, model and year. This will likely not provide you with your car's original window sticker but you may get lucky and find something similar.
Step 4
Look up your car's original window sticker and print a copy of it by visiting the auto maker's website, locating the section of the site that allows you to look up a window sticker and entering your VIN. This option is only available for some car brands.
Step 5
Create a new window sticker. Many companies specialize in creating window stickers. These companies can create a replica of your car's original window sticker if you provide them with the car's build sheet and the dealer invoice.
References
- DMV.Org: How to Read a Window Sticker
- "The American Car Dealership"; Robert Genat; 2004
- Triple A Enterprises Window Sticker Reproductions: FAQs
- Marti Auto Works: Window Stickers
Things You'll Need
- Your car's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
- Your car's build sheet and the dealer invoice
Writer Bio
Al Derr began writing professionally in 2010 and has published work in "Theatre Journal." She is a freelance writer, tutor and theater director. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in theater and secondary education from Texas Christian University and a Master of Arts in theater history from Texas State University, San Marcos.
