How to Find Your Vehicle’s Chassis, VIN, and Engine Numbers?

When buying a new vehicle, the first thing you (as a buyer) look for, is the comfort of the vehicle. Next, you may consider whether it meets your requirements of power, safety and convenience. After those considerations, you move on to shortlisting these vehicles based on the mileage, colour, and engine capacity. But when looking for these factors, at times, you might not realize that you are being recommended an older production model of the vehicle. For starters, the one being suggested to you, may not be the latest one that the dealer has. Thus, it is important to check for it before you finalise the decision. All such details of your vehicle, such as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), engine number and chassis number can be found out. This article mentions some of the different ways to acquire these details. Before you know where to look, ensure that you understand well what VIN is.

What is Chassis Number and What is Engine Number Meaning?

A chassis number, also known as a vehicle identification number (VIN), is a unique alphanumeric code assigned to individual motor vehicles. Positioned on the car's frame, this identifier plays a critical role in vehicle identification and history tracking. It serves as a reference point for various documents, including registration certificates and insurance records. An engine number serves as a factory-assigned identifier stamped onto the engine of the vehicle. Similar to a chassis number, the engine number is crucial for identifying a vehicle. However, it is distinct from the VIN no. of the car and should not be confused with it. While the chassis number primarily identifies the vehicle itself, the engine number specifically relates to the engine.

What is the meaning of VIN in your vehicle?

VIN or Vehicle Identification Number is a unique number allotted to the car by its manufacturer. It is also known as the chassis number of your vehicle. This unique field helps the registration authorities know which specific unit of the manufacturer is being registered in the buyer’s name. VIN is a 17-digit number which is distinctive from the other models and the make of the vehicle.

How to get the VIN for your vehicle?

The VIN for your vehicle can be found in not one but multiple ways. Here are some of them you can try out to locate the VIN:

1. The registration certificate of your vehicle

The primary document that has all details of your vehicle is the registration document. Since it serves as identification proof for your vehicle, it also contains details of the VIN. When your motor vehicle is registered with the Regional Transport Office (RTO), the RTO prints the chassis number on the registration certificate. In case you have the newer version of the registration certificate, which is a smart card, you can find the VIN details embedded on the chip along with other details of your vehicle. *

2. The motor insurance policy

Since it is mandatory to have at least third-party vehicle insurance, all vehicles, whether privately owned or commercial, are required to have a vehicle insurance policy. This insurance document contains several details of the motor vehicle, including its VIN. So, you can check the VIN, right in your motor insurance policy. Modern-day insurance policies can even be bought online. Thus, it is even easier to check for VIN without going through the entire insurance document. *

3. On different parts of the vehicle

The VIN or the chassis number is not just printed on the registration certificate and the insurance policy, it is also embossed on the different parts of your vehicle. For instance, certain car manufacturers print the VIN on the dashboard. Further, it can also be found on the B-pillar of your car behind the driver-side door. For some two-wheelers, it is located on the chassis near the front suspension. The hood of the vehicle is also one part where some manufacturers etch the VIN. In some cars, the VIN can be found under the spare wheel in the boot space. Since it is inside the vehicle, it remains protected from erosion.

Understanding the Vehicle Identification Number

The VIN is a 17-digit number, as mentioned above. Here’s what each number means, and how you should interpret it:

1. The first digit is the location where the car was manufactured.
2. The second and third digit denotes the details of the manufacturer.
3. From the fourth to the eighth digit, the car’s brand, engine type, capacity, and fuel type are denoted.
4. The ninth digit is a security code provided by the manufacturer.
5. The tenth digit denotes the manufacturing year of the vehicle.
6. The eleventh digit is the manufacturing plant of the vehicle.
7. The remaining six digits are the unique serial number assigned to your vehicle.

Where can the engine number be found on your vehicle?

Similar to the chassis number, the engine number is another unique field for the vehicle’s engine. It too serves as an identifier for the vehicle’s engine. However, it is important to note that the VIN and the engine number are not the same and are two separate unique fields. The engine number can be found embossed on the vehicle’s engine. In most cases, it is a metal sticker imprinted and placed on the engine in a way that you can see it clearly. Also, the registration certificate of your vehicle mentions its engine number. Finally, even the insurance policy document has a mention of the engine number alongside the VIN and other registration details of the vehicle. Also check out the commercial vehicle insurance offered at Bajaj Allianz General Insurance.

Motor Vehicle - Essential Documents Required

When purchasing a motor vehicle in India, ensuring you have the necessary documentation is crucial. Apart from the excitement of owning a new car, you must get through a series of paperwork to comply with legal and financial requirements. Here are the essential documents you'll need:

Proof of Identity (POI):

Any government-issued ID such as an Aadhar card, PAN card, or passport is required for verification purposes.

Proof of Address (POA):

Documents like recent utility bills, Aadhar cards, or passports serve as proof of your current residence.

Income Proof:

If you're opting for financing, you'll need to provide salary slips, bank statements, or income tax returns.

Passport-sized Photographs:

Typically, a couple of recent photographs are needed for various formalities.

Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC):

This legal document proves your ownership of the vehicle and is mandatory for all motor vehicles.

Invoice of the Car Purchase:

Keeping the original purchase invoice is essential for warranty claims and resale purposes.

Insurance Documents:

Motor insurance is compulsory in India, so you'll need to have the policy document and renew it timely.

PUC Certificate:

A Pollution Under Control certificate is mandatory and requires periodic renewal.

Steps to Identify Your Car Engine Number

To identify your car's engine number, follow these simple steps:

Review the Insurance Policy Document:

Your car's insurance policy document contains essential details, including the engine number. Insurance companies usually send out policy details to your registered email address immediately after purchase, allowing you to cross-check the engine number easily.

Inspect the Engine Body:

Look for the engine number on the body of your car's engine. Manufacturers ensure that the number is clearly visible, often imprinting it on a metal sticker placed strategically for easy visibility when the hood is opened.

Consult the Car Dealership:

Reach out to your car dealer for assistance in locating the engine number. They have access to your vehicle's details and can help you track down the engine number effortlessly.

Refer to the Owner's Manual:

Car manufacturers typically stamp the engine number on the engine block, but its location may vary based on the model. Use your owner's manual to pinpoint the exact location of the engine number on your vehicle.

Check the Registration Certificate:

The engine number is printed on the Registration Certificate, which is obtained when the dealer registers the car with the local Regional Transport Office (RTO). Refer to this document to find the engine number. Also Read: Underage Driving Rules & Fines: A Complete Guide

How to Find the Motor Details Online?

To find your car's motor details online, follow these steps: Visit the VAHAN NR E-Services Page: Go to the Parivahan website and go to the VAHAN NR E-Services page. Access Vehicle Details: From the main menu, select the 'Know Your Vehicle Details' option. Log In or Register: If you're already registered on the website, log in using your registered mobile number. New users can create an account using their email ID and phone number. Enter Vehicle Information: Enter your vehicle information, including the registration number, and complete the Captcha details. Search Vehicle: Click on the 'Search Vehicle' option to proceed. View Motor Details: The website will display various details about your car, such as the registration number, engine number, VIN number, chassis number, owner's name, and fuel type. Also Read: How to Check And Pay Traffic E-Challan Online

Conclusion

The policy paperwork for auto insurance acts as a complete database of important vehicle information, including the VIN no. of the car, chassis number, and engine number. It is no longer necessary to hunt through several sources to find important vehicle-related information due to this single source, which offers a dependable and practical solution. By referring to the Bajaj Allianz insurance policy document, individuals can effortlessly obtain all the necessary details about their car.

FAQs :

1. What is the importance of a motor’s VIN number?

The motor's VIN number, or Vehicle Identification Number, is crucial for identifying the vehicle uniquely. It provides information about the vehicle's origin, manufacturer, model, and more, aiding in vehicle registration, insurance, and tracking of recalls or thefts.

2. Are the chassis number and engine number the same? 

No, the chassis number and engine number are distinct identifiers for a vehicle. While the chassis number identifies the vehicle's frame, the engine number uniquely identifies the engine.

3. Can you find the VIN with the engine number? 

No, the VIN and engine number are separate identifiers. The VIN provides comprehensive details about the vehicle, while the engine number specifically identifies the engine. They serve different purposes in vehicle identification.

4. Can we check the chassis number online? 

Chassis number details are typically found on physical documents like the registration certificate or insurance policy. While online databases may offer some vehicle information, accessing chassis numbers online usually involves verifying physical documents or contacting authorities directly.

5. What is a Chassis Number? 

A Chassis Number, also known as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), is a unique alphanumeric code assigned to a vehicle by its manufacturer. It serves as the vehicle's fingerprint, containing information about its make, model, year of manufacture, and more.

6. Are the VIN and the engine number the same? 

No, the VIN and engine number are not the same. The VIN encompasses various details about the vehicle, including its origin, manufacturer, and unique serial number. In contrast, the engine number specifically identifies the vehicle's engine, distinct from the VIN.   *Standard T&C Apply **Disclaimer: Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.