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If you’ve entered a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on carVertical and received an incorrect VIN error, here’s how to resolve it.

1. Make sure you’re actually using the VIN number

You can find the VIN in these common locations:

• Dashboard: Driver’s side near the windshield.
• Driver’s side door pillar: Near the hinge.
• Front end of the frame: Driver’s side, near the wheel well.
• Under the hood: Near the engine block.
• Vehicle registration documents: Registration, insurance, or ownership papers.

Confirm that you’re using the correct number – sometimes, users mistakenly enter the engine number, chassis number, or another identifier instead of the VIN. Here’s how the VIN should look like:

Meanwhile, other identifiers, such as the chassis or registration number, not only look different but also serve different purposes:

carVertical can only check 17-character VINs. If you're using the old VIN standard, a chassis number, or entering a license plate number instead of the VIN, we won’t be able to generate a report.

2. Check for typos when entering your VIN

Sometimes, a simple typing mistake can cause an incorrect VIN error. Check whether you’re making any of these common VIN entry mistakes that can lead to this error:

• Incorrect VIN length: VINs must be 17 characters long. If yours is shorter or longer, it’s invalid, and we can’t generate a report.
• Mixing up similar-looking characters: "5" and "S" or "4" and "A" are often confused.
• Using prohibited letters: VINs never include O (o), I (i), or Q (q) to prevent confusion with numbers 0, 1, and 9.
• Accidentally adding spaces: Make sure there are no spaces before or after the VIN when entering it.

3. Confirm the VIN with the vehicle seller or owner

If you’re still receiving an incorrect VIN error after verifying everything yourself, it’s a good idea to double-check the number directly with the vehicle’s seller or current owner. They may provide you with an updated or corrected VIN – sometimes VIN plates can be hard to read, or mistakes happen when numbers are written down or communicated.

Ask the seller to:

• Send a clear photo of the VIN as it appears on the vehicle.
• Cross-check the VIN on the vehicle with the one listed on registration or insurance documents.

If everything appears correct and you’re still experiencing issues entering your VIN, feel free to reach out to our support team – we’ll be happy to assist you!