Decode a VIN. Check for recalls.
Enter a 17-character VIN to see the year, make, model and specs in plain English, along with every safety recall NHTSA lists for it. Free, with no sign-up.
No VIN handy? Look up recalls by year, make and model.
Recalls by make
ChevroletDodgeFordGMCHondaHyundaiJeepKiaMazdaNissanRamSubaruTeslaToyotaVolkswagen
Where to find your VIN
- Dashboard: a small plate at the base of the windshield on the driver's side, readable from outside.
- Door jamb: the sticker on the driver's door pillar.
- Paperwork: your title, registration card and insurance card all show it.
What the 17 characters mean
| 1–3 | World manufacturer identifier: country and maker |
|---|---|
| 4–8 | Vehicle attributes: model, body, engine, restraints |
| 9 | Check digit: catches typos |
| 10 | Model year (year chart) |
| 11 | Assembly plant |
| 12–17 | Production serial number |
Frequently asked questions
Does VinPlain show if my car has an open recall?
It lists every recall issued for your vehicle's year, make and model. Whether your particular car has been repaired is recorded by the manufacturer. Check it with your VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup or ask a dealer.
Where does the data come from?
From the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): its vPIC database for decoding VINs, and its recall and complaint databases.
Can a VIN identify me?
No. A VIN describes the vehicle, not its owner. Owner records aren't public and aren't used here.