What to Do If the VIN Is Unclear?
2 Answers
If the VIN is unclear, the following methods can be used: 1. Spray rust remover on a dry cloth to remove surface rust; 2. Gently sand with No. 0 sandpaper; 3. Visit the vehicle management office to apply for record filing and request a new rubbing. The VIN is a unique set of seventeen letters or numbers that identifies the vehicle manufacturer, engine, chassis number, and other specifications. Each vehicle has its own VIN, which can be found under the door, on the left side of the front windshield, in the engine compartment, or on the driver's door pillar. It can also be located on the vehicle insurance certificate or registration card.
If the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is hard to read, the most common issues are dirt, rust, or aging obscuring it. I recommend trying simple methods first: use a soft cloth dipped in warm water to gently wipe the VIN area at the bottom of the windshield to see if dust or grease can be removed. Avoid strong acids or hard objects to prevent scratches. If this doesn’t work, the number itself might be damaged. In that case, it’s best to visit a professional auto repair shop—they have tools like magnifying lights or scanners to read backup locations such as the door pillar or engine bay. The VIN is a crucial identifier for the vehicle, used in transfers, insurance, and theft prevention, so don’t wait until it becomes a major issue. Regularly cleaning that area during car washes can help prevent it from becoming illegible.
