
You can find the original window sticker, or Monroney sticker, for a used car through several channels. The most direct method is to ask the seller, as they may have kept the original document. If that fails, you can contact a dealership for the car's brand using the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), use online paid services that pull vehicle history reports, or check the car manufacturer's official website, as some offer a window sticker lookup tool.
The Monroney sticker is the official price tag required on all new cars in the U.S., detailing the MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price), standard and optional equipment, and fuel economy ratings. Having it for a used car is invaluable because it provides an authoritative record of the vehicle's original configuration, helping you verify that the features you see are original and not aftermarket additions. This prevents overpaying and confirms the car's true specs.
Here are the primary methods, ranked by likelihood of success:
| Method | How It Works | Success Probability | Typical Cost | Key Information Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Current Seller | Ask the previous owner or dealership you're buying from. | High (if seller is organized) | Free | None |
| Brand Dealership | Visit or call a franchised dealership's parts/service department. | Medium to High | Often Free / Small Fee | Full VIN, Proof of Ownership |
| Online VIN Report Services | Use sites like MonroneyLabels.com or VehicleHistory.com. | High | $10 - $20 | Full VIN |
| Manufacturer Website | Check owner's portal or specific lookup tool (e.g., Ford, Chrysler). | Varies by Brand | Free or Included | VIN, Account Registration |
| Previous Owner Contact | If you have their info, they may have a digital copy. | Low to Medium | Free | Contact Information |
When contacting a dealership, be prepared with the full 17-digit VIN and, if possible, proof that you are the current owner or a serious prospective buyer. Some dealers are strict about releasing this information for data privacy reasons. Online services are often the most reliable paid option, providing an instant digital replica of the original sticker.

Check the glove compartment or the car's records folder first—that's where the previous owner might have left it. If it's not there, just call a dealership for that car's brand. Give them the VIN, which is usually on the dashboard near the windshield or on the driver's side doorjamb. They can often print a new one for you, sometimes for a small fee. It's the quickest way to get an official copy.


