When buying a car, most people focus on design, engine capacity, color, and other prominent features. However, the chassis number and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) are crucial yet often overlooked factors in car purchases. These unique identifiers ensure that you’re buying the car as advertised, especially in terms of manufacturing year and authenticity. Here’s a complete guide to understanding the chassis number and how it adds value to your vehicle ownership.
What is a Chassis Number?
The chassis number is a key component of your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which serves as its unique DNA. Every car has a 17-character VIN that provides detailed information about its manufacturing year, location, and specifications. The chassis number is typically the last six digits of the VIN, distinguishing your car from every other vehicle in the world.
This identification system helps prevent fraud, especially in the case of used car sales, ensuring transparency and trust between the buyer and seller.
How to Locate the VIN or Chassis Number
Finding your car’s VIN or chassis number might seem daunting, but it’s simpler than you think. Here are several ways to locate it:
- Registration Certificate (RC)
- The Regional Transport Office (RTO) stamps the chassis number on your vehicle’s registration certificate when the car is registered.
- It’s displayed on the smart card along with other vehicle details.
- Driver’s Side Door
- Look for a metal strip on the B-pillar (the vertical support between the front and rear doors) when you open the driver’s side door.
- Dashboard
- Some car manufacturers print the VIN on the dashboard, visible through the windshield on the driver’s side.
- Boot (Trunk)
- Lift the spare wheel in the trunk to find the VIN or chassis number printed underneath.
- Under the Hood
- Check near the engine for the VIN, typically etched on a metal plate.
- Car Dealership
- Contact the dealership where you purchased the car; they can retrieve the VIN or chassis number from their records.
- Insurance Policy
- Your VIN is often mentioned in your car insurance documents, sent to your email or available in printed policies.
Decoding the VIN
The VIN contains detailed information about your car:
- First digit: Country where the car was manufactured.
- Second and third digits: Manufacturer details.
- Fourth to eighth digits: Car’s brand, engine type, fuel type, and model.
- Ninth digit: Security code provided by the manufacturer.
- Tenth digit: Manufacturing year of the car.
- Eleventh digit: Plant where the car was manufactured.
- Last six digits: Unique serial number (the chassis number).
How to Check Your Engine Chassis Number Online
You can verify your engine chassis number through online portals like the official Vahan NR e-Services website. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official website and select “Know Your Vehicle Details.”
- Log in using your registered mobile number.
- Enter your vehicle details and captcha code.
- Click “Search Vehicle” to view:
- Engine identification number.
- Fuel type.
- Owner’s name.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I find my chassis number?
You can find it on the driver’s side door, etched on a metal strip located on the B-pillar.
2. Does the chassis number have 17 digits?
The VIN has 17 alphanumeric characters. The chassis number is typically the last six digits of the VIN.
3. Is the chassis number important?
Yes, it contains critical information about the car’s model, year, and manufacturing plant, helping identify the vehicle uniquely.
4. What do the last five digits of the chassis number mean?
- 10th digit: Model year.
- 11th digit: Manufacturing plant.
- Last six digits: Unique car serial number.
5. Can I know the engine number through the VIN?
Yes, the VIN contains engine-related information, including size and type.
Conclusion
The chassis number and VIN are more than just technical details; they safeguard your purchase and ensure authenticity. Whether buying a new or used car, knowing how to locate and decode these identifiers gives you an edge in making informed decisions. They not only ensure transparency but also protect you from potential fraud, making them essential elements of vehicle ownership.