What is a VIN?

2 min read

Can I get a "V"? Can I get an "I"? Can I get an "N"? What's that spell? VIN! What in tarnation is a VIN? Your Vehicle Identification Number. Why is it a big deal? In many cases, you’ll need a VIN to complete the sale of your car.

VIN-splaining

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a set of unique characters given to every car when it's manufactured. Think of it as a fingerprint, a unique combination of numbers and letters that sets your car apart from the millions of others on the road. A VIN structure spills the beans about a car's make, model, year of production, and heaps more.

VIN specifics

To go through with the sale of a car, the VIN allows us to review information, like:

Ownership Verification:It'll confirm you are the car's legal owner.

Vehicle History: It'll tell us about accidents, recalls, title issues, and odometer readings.

Title Transfers: We need it to complete the paperwork when you hand over your title.

VIN finder

It all depends on your car's manufacturer, but in most cases, you can find the VIN in a few places:

Dashboard: The VIN is usually on a metal plate attached to the dashboard near the base of the windshield on the driver's side.

Inside Driver’s Door: Open the driver's side door and check where the door latches. You should see a sticker or a metal plate with the VIN.

Documents: The VIN is also on your car's title, insurance card, or registration.

Other: Sometimes, the VIN is on the spare tire or under the hood by the engine or radiator.

VIN sharing

While giving out your VIN is usually safe, you should only share it with places like insurance companies, repair shops, car-buying companies like us, or during a private sale once you know the buyer is legit. Posting your VIN in a car forum or ad is a big no-no. Some scammers will try to pull the wool over your eyes with title cloning or identity theft.

If you're in the neighborhood of selling your old car, you better have your VIN handy and get an instant offer from Peddle.

Buying Basics

what is a VINVIN structure

Peddle Experience

Preparing for Peddle to buy my car

5 minute read

Selling Basics

What is a car title and do I need it to sell my car?

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Brian

5.0

Super easy to work with! Got way more value for my car than anyone else would offer. The online process was simple to use. The person picking up the car was professional and straightforward. Pleased with my experience! Definitely recommend.

Shanae

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I've used them twice to get rid of cars either not running or not in good shape. Fair offer, you know just what you're getting. And you don't have to worry about a bunch of spam calls or waiting on competing offers like you do other places. The company partner contacted me same day and were very quick to schedule.

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5.0

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5.0

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Recommended

Awesome experience! I was apprehensive at first because everything seemed too simple. I answered a few questions, received a quote and scheduled pick up. Communication is excellent. The pick-up driver was very professional and knowledgeable. I got $685 for my 2004 Lexus ES

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5.0

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5.0

My mother's 2003 Nissan Xterra had a broken timing belt and was too old to consider such a costly repair. We just needed to get rid of it. Peddle was hassle-free, very responsive, and gave us same-day service with a great offer!

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This was such a quick and easy service to use! I cleaned my things out of the vehicle and it was ready to be picked up. I went online last night, it was towed this afternoon. My tow driver Will, is awesome!! Thank you so much, I definitely thought this was going to be a hassle and it couldn't have been more simple!

Kelley

5.0

Peddle gave me the best offer of the four companies I contacted. The tow people (a really nice couple!) showed up as scheduled, handed over the check and towed away my terminal old Camry. I really nice experience and I would recommend Peddle wholeheartedly.

Charles

5.0

Very easy and fast process. Peddle offered me significantly more than other companies. In less than 24-hrs from clicking the "Accept Offer" button, my 2015 Toyota Highlander was picked up and check in hand. Could not have gone any better. Highly recommend!