Finding Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for Windshield Replacement
This page explains what vehicle identification numbers, or VINs, are, plus where to find them and how they're used when you need to replace or repair your damaged windshield.
For a free quote to fix any glass damage on your vehicle in Greater Phoenix, AZ, call the Pinnacle Auto Glass team today at 480.907.3982 for the best auto glass repair quotes!
What Is a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?
A vehicle identification number, or VIN, is a unique 17-digit combination of numbers and letters.
Each vehicle has its own VIN. The different parts of the VIN correspond to different attributes of that particular vehicle, including:
- the manufacturer
- the country where the vehicle was made
- the vehicle model
VINs were standardized by the National Highway and Transit Safety Administration in 1954, so all vehicles produced since then will have a VIN.
Where Is the VIN on My Vehicle?
VINs are normally displayed in several standard positions:
- On the bottom of the windshield on the driver's side
- On the vehicle's frame near the driver's door latch
- On the vehicle's frame near the windshield wiper fluid
- On the vehicle's frame beneath the spare tire
How to Find Your VIN Fast
- The fastest way to find your vehicle's VIN is to check the lower windshield area in front of the driver from outside your vehicle.
- In the bottom part of the windshield that has a black tint, there will be an area with no tint where you can see through the windshield to the vehicle's VIN on the dashboard.
Where Are Other Places to Find My VIN?
In addition to on your vehicle, all legal and service documents for your vehicle should list its VIN.
Legal and service documents to find your VIN include:
- History report (including 3rd party reports like CarFax)
- Insurance policy and card
- Maintenance and repair invoices
- Owner's manual
- Registration
- Title
Your VIN and Fixing Your Auto Glass
Knowing your VIN is important when it's time to fix your vehicle's auto glass because the VIN will show the exact options and accessories that your vehicle came with from the factory.
Many vehicle models will require different windshields depending on the options and accessories each particular vehicle was configured with when it was made.
When you speak with your Pinnacle Auto Glass customer service representative to set up your appointment, having your vehicle's VIN ready will allow us to quickly determine the proper windshield and accessories for your particular vehicle.