Is It Safe To Disclose The Vehicle Identification Number When Selling A Car?
The VIN is your vehicle's identification number, and it is visible on some vehicles simply by approaching the windshield and peering at a small plate stamped to the dashboard. Additionally, a VIN can be determined by searching the license plate number, which is a practice we use to verify a vehicle's history. Having said that, it is perfectly safe to share your VIN. It's in plain view, just like your license plate is.
We would argue in favor of disclosing your VIN when selling your
car, so that a buyer can review the vehicle's history and understand what they're getting themselves into. The more transparency, the better, as it allows the buyer to learn more about the vehicle and also speeds up the selling process.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Data And Vehicle History Reports
Who Keeps Track Of Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs)? Who Has Access To Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Data?
In the United States, the government maintains VIN records. Your local DMV branch has access to VIN data, as do a variety of other entities, including vehicle history reporting companies such as Carfax, organizations such as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, law enforcement, and border customs agencies.
Who Has The Authority To Add To, Modify, Or Access VIN Data?