Volkswagen VIN Decoder

What is a Volkswagen VIN?

The Volkswagen VIN is a unique 17-character alphanumeric code you can use to identify any VW vehicle in the world.

VIN information is particularly useful when looking for spare parts or buying a used car or motorcycle. Entering a Volkswagen VIN into our Decoder will tell you the vehicle’s characteristics and offer useful historical data, such its record of ownership, accident history, model flaws and more. 

What does a Volkswagen VIN contain?

The letters and numbers of your Volkswagen VIN can be divided into three parts: 1-3 digits are the World Manufacturer Identifier, 4-9 are the Vehicle Description Section, and 10-17 are the Vehicle Identifier Section. Knowing what the digits stand for (or using our Volkswagen VIN Decoder) will tell you:

1. The VW vehicle’s country of origin and type
2. Important characteristics, such as the transmission, engine, and body type
3. The manufacturing plant and VW serial number

Where to find the Volkswagen VIN?

You’ll find your Volkswagen VIN on the vehicle. To do so:

1. Walk to the windshield on the driver’s side of the car
2. Look for a metal plate on the dashboard - it should contain the VIN
3. A VW VIN looks like this: WVWZZZ3BZ1E179218

If the VIN is not displayed behind the windshield, look on the driver’s side door frame, near the place where the door locks to the body. Alternatively, you can also look on your car documents - the car title or insurance certificate.

Volkswagen History Check

Specs and characteristics encoded in the VIN are just a small part of what your Volkswagen VIN can teach you - there is also the history report. Enter your VIN into our VW VIN Decoder and find all the data connected to the code. This may include reports from law enforcement, insurance agencies, the manufacturer, and other institutions.

If you’re buying a used Volkswagen, this is the best way to find out if the vehicle:

• has been stolen or in a serious accident
• has outstanding manufacturer recalls or faults
• has been subject to odometer fraud 
• has been repainted (your VW history check will often include photographs)