VIN Standards
What Information Can Be Retrieved From a VIN?
By Automotive Data Engineering Team
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7 min read
From factory build options to historical title records, discover the complete array of data attributes retrievable using a 17-character VIN.
A 17-character VIN serves as the bridge connecting static factory engineering attributes with dynamic historical records.
1. Static Factory Build Attributes
Extracted directly from WMI and VDS segments:
- Identity: Model year, make, model, trim, body style, door count, cab configuration.
- Powertrain: Displacement (liters), cylinders, fuel type, aspiration, horsepower, transmission style.
- Dimensions: Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) class, curb weight, wheelbase, seating capacity.
- Safety: Front, side, and curtain airbag locations, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic stability control.
2. Dynamic Historical Milestones
Retrieved from administrative and commercial registries:
- State Title Brands: Salvage, flood, rebuilt, lemon law, and fire damage indicators.
- Odometer History: Chronological mileage checkpoints recorded during title events and state inspections.
- Safety Recalls: Active NHTSA safety recall campaigns and repair status.
Test sample VIN decodes on our interactive VIN Lookup Demo.
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