The chassis number, more commonly known in the U.S. as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), is found in a few standard locations. The most common and easiest place to check is on the dashboard on the driver's side, visible through the windshield from outside the car. You can also find it on the driver's side doorjamb (sticker or metal plate), under the hood on the engine block, and on important documents like the vehicle title and registration.
This 17-character code is your car's unique fingerprint. It's essential for tasks like checking a vehicle's history, insuring it, or ordering the correct parts. If you're having trouble, your insurance card or a quick call to a dealership with your license plate number can also point you in the right direction.
| Common VIN Locations | Where to Look Specifically | Notes |
|---|
| Dashboard | Lower corner on the driver's side, viewed through the windshield. | Easiest and most standardized location. |
| Driver's Side Doorjamb | On a sticker or metal plate where the door latches. | Often includes manufacture date and tire pressure info. |
| Vehicle Registration/Title | Top of the document. | The most accurate official record of your VIN. |
| Engine Block | Stamped on the front of the engine. | Can be difficult to see without a flashlight. |
| Insurance Card/Policy | Listed on the card or policy documents. | A quick alternative if you have your insurance handy. |
| Radiator Support | In the front engine bay, near the radiator. | Common on older vehicles. |
For a definitive check, always cross-reference the VIN you find on the car with the one printed on your registration or title. This ensures accuracy for legal and administrative purposes. If the VIN plate on the dashboard looks tampered with or is missing, it's a major red flag about the vehicle's history.
