
Cadillac's VIN is stamped on the right front shock absorber upper mount. The VIN is the vehicle identification number, a unique code assigned by the manufacturer to identify the vehicle - similar to a person's ID number. This 17-digit alphanumeric code has the following meanings: The first 3 characters represent the country of manufacture, manufacturer, and vehicle type; Characters 4-8 indicate vehicle characteristics such as model, engine type, and body style; The 9th character is a check digit to verify VIN accuracy; The 10th character denotes the model year; The 11th character indicates the assembly plant (usually represented by 0); Note that the 11th character will never actually be 0; Characters 12-17 represent the production sequence number.

From my mechanical background experience, the Cadillac VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) stamp is typically engraved in two key locations. The most common spot is at the lower left corner of the driver's side on the front windshield, where the serial number can be directly seen through the glass. Another location is on the front cross member under the hood, near the base of the windshield. After opening the hood, you'll need to bend down and look carefully – sometimes even wiping off dust with a soft cloth for better visibility. If the stamp becomes illegible, it may affect vehicle transfer or insurance claims, so I recommend cleaning and rust-proofing it every six months. In the used car market, verifying this stamp is crucial to avoid purchasing a repaired accident vehicle. If its location shows signs of tampering, it's a major red flag. Bringing a flashlight when checking makes the process easier, as good lighting ensures accuracy – don't cut corners for convenience.

When I first dealt with a Cadillac, it took some effort to locate the VIN. It's usually prominently engraved at the corner of the windshield near the driver's seat, visible through the glass. There's also a spot in the engine compartment, on the metal crossbeam at the front of the engine, which tends to accumulate dust and needs wiping clean. Remember, during vehicle registration, the DMV staff will carefully verify this number - mismatches can cause trouble. It's good practice to take photos with your phone for future reference. The stamped VIN is the vehicle's ID card, essential for every maintenance check or sale, so never neglect its inspection. The hood location can be tricky to find; I recommend getting help to avoid excessive bending. When cleaning, avoid using a pressure washer to prevent corrosion that might obscure the legibility of the stamp.

Knowing the location of the VIN helps protect your rights. Cadillac's stamped number is often displayed at the lower left of the windshield. Legally, this serial number must be clearly visible for anti-theft records or insurance processing. If the stamp is worn, promptly visit an authorized repair shop for restoration, otherwise it may be questioned during ownership transfer. Occasionally, there might be engravings at the front of the hood, but this is not the primary location. Verifying the number during vehicle transactions can prevent fraud and ensure legal origin. Keeping it clean and rust-free is crucial—avoid using acidic cleaners in that area during daily maintenance to prevent damage.

Back in the day when I drove, Cadillac VINs were always prominently displayed near the windshield edge. The newer models still follow this pattern—located at the lower part of the windshield on the driver's side, easily visible with a glance down. The second common location is on the front crossbeam in the engine compartment, requiring you to lift the hood for a closer inspection. Older vehicles might have the VIN obscured by rust, but a gentle scrub with a soft-bristle toothbrush can restore visibility. Since this stamped number is crucial for vehicle documentation, every inspection emphasizes meticulous cross-checking—never cut corners. When lighting is poor, bringing a small flashlight makes the task easier—don’t rush and skip steps.


