Free VIN Decoder
Enter a 17-character VIN to instantly read the manufacturer, country of build and model year — right in your browser.
Want the exact parts for this vehicle? VINsearch resolves the full build and shows genuine OEM numbers from 47+ catalogs.
Find parts by VINBasic decode from the VIN structure (no external database). Results are indicative; register for a full, build-exact lookup.
What is a VIN?
A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique 17-character code stamped on every modern vehicle. It is the key that unlocks accurate parts identification, because it encodes exactly how the car was built. The VIN never uses the letters I, O or Q (to avoid confusion with 1 and 0).
The three parts of a VIN
- WMI (1–3) — World Manufacturer Identifier: who built the vehicle and in which country.
- VDS (4–9) — Vehicle Descriptor Section: model, body, engine and restraint information; character 9 is a check digit.
- VIS (10–17) — Vehicle Identifier Section: model year (character 10), plant code and the serial number.
From VIN to the right part
This free tool reads the structure of the VIN. To go further — to the exact engine, gearbox and equipment, and the genuine OEM part numbers that fit — you need the manufacturer's electronic parts catalog. VINsearch gives you 47+ of them from a single login. Learn more about reading a VIN →
VIN decoder FAQ
What is a VIN?
A VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique 17-character code that identifies a specific vehicle. It encodes the manufacturer, country of build, model year, and a serial number.
Is this VIN decoder free?
Yes. This basic VIN decoder runs in your browser and is completely free — it reads the manufacturer, country and model year from the VIN structure. For exact parts identification by VIN, register at lk.vinsearch.online.
Why doesn't the check digit match my VIN?
The 9th-character check digit is mandatory for vehicles built for North America and China, but many European and Asian-market VINs don't use it. A non-matching check digit on those vehicles is normal and does not mean the VIN is invalid.
Can I find car parts with a VIN?
Yes — that's what VINsearch is for. Enter a VIN into the platform and it resolves the exact factory build, then shows genuine OEM part numbers and exploded diagrams from 47+ official catalogs.
Where do I find my VIN?
The VIN is usually visible at the base of the windscreen on the driver's side, on the driver-side door jamb, in the service book, and on the vehicle registration documents.