The Importance Of The Vehicle Identification Number

Just like every individual has unique fingerprints that can be used for identification, vehicles, too, have one. When a car is manufactured, right after it is released from the production line, a 17-digit code, called the vehicle identification number (VIN), is stamped onto the chassis, typically in the engine bay, and sometimes underneath one of the doors or at the bottom of the windshield.

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Unlike registration numbers and other IDs, the VIN cannot be changed and is fixed to the car for the entirety of its lifespan. Some people even call the VIN as a car’s DNA. 

The VIN provides specific information about the vehicle and is divided into three parts. The first three digits are the world manufacturer identifier (WMI) number, which consists of codes for the country where the car was assembled, the manufacturer, and the vehicle type. The second part – the fourth to ninth digits – is the vehicle descriptor section (VDS), which shows what components had been used on the car. The last eight digits identify the features of the car and can help people figure out the year the vehicle was produced. 

All these data are stored in databases of vehicle registration companies and car manufacturers. By entering the VIN in their search engine, the car can be validated and identified correctly. Other information may also be available, including accident history, maintenance records, and more. This is especially useful for those looking to buy used cars. 

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Looking for a high-quality, affordable certified pre-owned vehicle can be a difficult task. American Federal Auto, LLC is committed to helping would-be buyers find the right car for them. Read more about the company here.

More advantages of purchasing pre-owned vehicles

Second-hand cars don’t have the reputation they should have. While it’s true that they’re not as appealing as brand-new vehicles, there are a lot of misconceptions going around as to the quality of pre-owned units. To counter these misconceptions, below are some of the advantages of owning a pre-owned car. 

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Minimal depreciation

A brand-new car once bought and used depreciates in value after the first six months. Its value will then continue to go down after that. Used vehicles though are the opposite. If the car is well taken care of, owners may not need to worry about depreciation. In fact, there are instances when the car may even sell for a higher price.

Minimal problems 

One of the biggest myths about pre-owned cars is that it’s not as reliable as brand new cars. The fact of the matter is that pre-owned vehicles go through several inspections before being sold to the public. Anything wrong with the car has either been corrected or replaced. 

Minimal fees 

Many owners of brand-new cars are surprised to find out they’re billed for unexpected expenses such as shipping fees. Dealerships will make sure every fee car buyers need to pay for pre-owned cars are clear enough. 

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American Federal Auto LLC is a family-owned and -operated company in Summerville, SC that strives to provide the best buying experience possible of certified pre-owned vehicles with bumper-to-bumper warranty and affordable payment options. Visit the company’s website to learn more.