How do I check the VIN on a classic car?

How do I check the VIN on a classic car?

Common VIN locations

1. Look at the dashboard near the windshield.
2. Using a flashlight, look inside the driver’s side wheel arch.
3. Using a flashlight, look under the steering column, which is located inside the vehicle under the steering wheel.
4. Look for the VIN on the firewall of the vehicle or other component parts.

Do older cars have shorter VIN numbers?

2. Your VIN isn’t 17 digits long. As of the model year (MY) 1981, the NHTSA required all vehicles manufactured for road use to be assigned a 17-digit VIN number. So, any vehicles manufactured in 1981 or later with VINs shorter than 17 characters are invalid.

How many digits are in a VIN before 1981?

A vehicle’s identification number (VIN) is a unique identifier. The most common VIN format is the 17-digit VIN, which became standard for all vehicles manufactured since January 1981. Vehicles manufactured prior to 1981 may have as few as 5 digits to as many as 13 digits.

How long is a VIN number in 1979?

If you are not sure of the year of the car, you may be able to go by the length of the VIN. 1962 through 1965 VINs have 10 digits, 1966 through 1974 VINs have 13 digits, 1975 through 1980 VINs also have 13 digits, and 1981 through present VINs have 17 digits.

How long were VIN numbers in the 70’s?

In the late 60s and early 70s, VIN numbers started to get a little longer (typically 13 characters) and more manufacturers started to encode engine type and body style.

Are all VIN numbers 17 characters?

Since 1981, VIN numbers are always composed of 17 digits consisting of numbers and letters. These digits are listed on a small tag, usually located on the driver’s side of the dashboard, visible when looking through the windshield from outside.

How many numbers are in a 1970 VIN?

In 1970 a 10-digit VIN became standard.