How to Find the Chassis Number of Your Car?

In the world of automobiles, certain identifiers hold immense significance for vehicle maintenance, legal compliance, and ownership records. One such vital identifier is the chassis number, a unique code every car owner should know. Whether you’re applying for insurance, registering your vehicle, or scheduling maintenance, understanding it’s importance and knowing how to find the chassis number is crucial.

Let’s dive into what a chassis number is and explore the various ways to find it on your car.

What is a Chassis Number?

A chassis number, also known as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), is a 17-character alphanumeric code assigned to every vehicle during manufacturing. Think of it as your car’s fingerprint—unique and irreplaceable. It contains essential information about the vehicle, such as its make, model, manufacturing plant, and production year.

Why is the Chassis Number Important?

1. Identification: It uniquely identifies your vehicle, helping authorities, insurers, and service centres track and verify it.
2. Theft Recovery: In case of theft, the chassis number plays a critical role in locating and identifying your vehicle.
3. Maintenance and Servicing: Service centres use the chassis number to access your vehicle’s history and ensure proper servicing.
4. Insurance and Legal Processes: Insurance policies, registration, and ownership transfers require the chassis number for documentation.

Understanding your car’s chassis number is essential for responsible ownership, ensuring smooth legal and maintenance processes.

How to Find the Chassis Number on Your Car?

The chassis number can be found in several places on your car and its documents. Here are the most common methods:

1. Registration Certificate (RC)

Your vehicle’s RC, issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO), contains all crucial details about your car, including the chassis number. Always cross-check this number with the physical chassis number on your car to ensure accuracy.

2. Dashboard

Look near the bottom of your windshield on the driver’s side. The chassis number is often visible through the glass, engraved on a small plate. Use a flashlight for better visibility if needed.

3. Driver’s Side Door

Open the driver’s door and check the frame or door jamb where the door latches onto the car body. Manufacturers often place the chassis number here on a sticker or metal plate.

4. Under the Hood

The chassis number may be engraved near the front engine block under the hood. This placement is common for added durability against environmental factors.

5. Boot/Trunk Area

Inspect the area where the boot lid hinges or under the spare tyre. In some cars, the chassis number is engraved or placed on a sticker in this area.

6. Rear Wheel Arch

For certain vehicles, the inner side of the rear wheel arch or suspension mounting points may have the chassis number. Clean the area lightly if it’s obscured by dirt or debris.

7. Car Dealership

If you’re unable to locate the number physically, the dealership where you purchased the car can provide the details. Carry proof of ownership to expedite the process.

8. Insurance Policy Document

The chassis number is recorded in your insurance policy, usually under the vehicle details section. Check the document or search for “VIN” or “chassis number” in digital copies.

9. Owner’s Manual

Your owner’s manual often includes information about where to locate the chassis number on your specific vehicle model.

How to Decode Your Chassis Number?

Each character in the chassis number has specific significance:

1. First 3 Characters: Represent the manufacturer and country of origin.
2. 4th to 9th Characters: Indicate details like the model, body style, and engine type.
3. 10th Character: Specifies the model year.
4. 11th Character: Denotes the assembly plant.
5. Last 6 Characters: The unique serial number assigned to your vehicle.

Decoding the chassis number can provide a wealth of information, especially useful when buying a second-hand car to verify its authenticity.

Finding the Engine Number

The engine number is another essential identifier, typically stamped onto the engine block. You can also find it in these locations:

1. Engine Block: Usually located near the top or front of the engine.
2. Registration Certificate: The RC contains the engine number alongside the chassis number.
3. Insurance Document: Check the policy details for the engine number.
4. Car Dealership: They can provide the engine number from their records.
5. Owner’s Manual: It indicates where the engine number is located on your specific car model.

How to Access Vehicle Details Online?

You can access your vehicle’s chassis and engine details online using platforms like:

1. Vahan Website: Visit the official portal and enter your registration number to retrieve details.
2. Mobile Apps: Apps like mParivahan provide quick access to your vehicle’s details.
3. Insurance Portals: If registered, your insurer’s portal often includes these details.

Stay Informed and Secure

Knowing your car’s chassis number and engine number is fundamental to vehicle ownership. From insurance claims to theft recovery, this information ensures you’re prepared for any situation. Make it a habit to verify the chassis number whenever dealing with legal or maintenance-related activities to avoid discrepancies.

FAQs

What is the purpose of a chassis number?

It uniquely identifies your vehicle, providing information about its origin, model, and manufacturer. It’s crucial for legal, insurance, and registration processes.

Can I check my chassis number online?

Yes, platforms like the Vahan website and mobile apps allow you to access your chassis number by entering your registration details.

Is the chassis number the same as the engine number?

No, the chassis number identifies the vehicle’s body, while the engine number is specific to the engine.

What should I do if the chassis number on my car is unreadable?

Check your RC, insurance policy, or consult the car dealership for the recorded chassis number.

Is the chassis number required for car insurance?

Yes, the chassis number is essential when purchasing or renewing car insurance as it uniquely identifies your vehicle.

Can the chassis number be changed?

No, the chassis number is a permanent identifier assigned during manufacturing and cannot be altered legally.

Are two-wheelers assigned a chassis number?

Yes, every motorised vehicle, including two-wheelers, has a unique chassis number for identification.