Illinois VIN Lookup
Knowing more about a vehicle you already own, or researching a pre-owned car, truck or SUV, can easily be done online with the 17 digit vehicle identification number. An Illinois VIN lookup is an indispensable tool for finding out all the juicy details about a vehicle's past. By conducting a VIN check, you can unlock the complete history, find out about prior accidents, and see if there are any safety recalls or potential issues with the title. There is a copious amount of data available from this 17 digit identifier.
What is a VIN and Why is it Important?
A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique code assigned to every motor vehicle when it's manufactured. This 17-character sequence acts like a car's fingerprint, allowing you to trace its history and verify its identity. Whether you’re a potential car buyer, a current owner, or someone just curious about a vehicle, running a VIN lookup in Illinois can provide you with a wealth of information. These are publicly available records that anyone can research online though both state agencies, and certified third party providers.
What Information Does an Illinois VIN Lookup Reveal?
Conducting a VIN number lookup can uncover a variety of details about the vehicle, many of which are not immediately visible from the car's physical appearance. Here is an outline of what you can expect from this search:
Vehicle Specifications
1). Make and Model: Identify the manufacturer and specific model of the vehicle.
2). Engine Type: Find out the engine specifications.
3). Body Type: Learn about the car’s body style, such as sedan, SUV, or truck.
History Records
1). Accident History: Access reports on past accidents the vehicle has been involved in.
2). Title Records: Check the title status to ensure it isn’t salvaged, rebuilt, or stolen.
3). Ownership History: View the number of previous owners and the states where the vehicle was registered.
Maintenance and Repairs
1). Service Records: Look into previous maintenance and repair work done on the vehicle, if available.
2). Recall Information: Check for any recalls issued for the vehicle model.
Mileage Verification
1). Odometer Readings: Verify the accuracy of the reported mileage to detect any rollbacks.
2). Title Odometer Verification: The vehicle title will also show if the reading is listed as being accurate, or not.
How to Run a VIN Lookup in Illinois
Running an Illinois VIN lookup online can be done through various vehicle platforms. Here’s how you can run this check online:
Step 1: Locate the VIN: Before you begin, you need to locate the complete 17-digit vehicle identification number. Common places include:
1). On the dashboard, visible through the windshield on the driver’s side.
2). Inside the driver’s side door jamb.
3). On the engine block or frame.
4). In registration documents such as the title, registration or insurance card.
Step 2: Choose a VIN Lookup Service: There are multiple online platforms available for running a lookup. Some popular options include:
1). National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB): The NCIB has a free check to verify if the vehicle has been reported as stolen or salvaged.
2). Third Party Providers: Provides comprehensive vehicle history reports, and sometimes ownership information for select searches.
3). Illinois SOS: The IL Secretary of State's Office also offers access vehicle records that can be resourced by the VIN or plate number.
Step 3: Enter the VIN and Retrieve the Report: Once you’ve selected a service, enter the vehicle identification numbers in the search bar and proceed with any required steps. Depending on the service, you may receive the report instantly or within a few minutes.
Uses of a VIN Lookup
While there are many utilities for accessing vehicle records, there are a few that are very common amongst consumers.
1). Buying a Used Car: Checking the history of a used car before purchasing is always recommended. It helps you verify the seller’s claims about the car's condition and history, and to verify you’re making an objective decision and getting a good deal.
2). Preventing Fraud: By checking the identification number, you can avoid being scammed by sellers who might try to sell stolen or tampered vehicles. The lookup can reveal title fraud or odometer rollbacks, and verify car ownership details.
3). Insurance and Financing: Insurance companies and lenders often require an Illinois VIN check to assess the vehicle’s risk profile and determine the correct premium or loan terms and interest rates.
4). Checking For Recalls: Finding out about safety recalls for your vehicle year and model will let you know about the safety and compliance with manufacturer updates.
Will an Illinois VIN Search Show Owner Information?
Sometimes, it really depends on what service you use, and if your search is compliant with state and federal privacy laws. Many third party providers offer owner information for select reasons, it's always a good idea to check before you pay for any VIN search reports.
Can I Run a VIN Check on a Vehicle with Fewer than 17 Digits?
Yes but many providers only offer vehicle reports for vehicles manufactured in the last 40 years with 17 digits in the VIN. For older, or vintage vehicles, you may want to check with the motor vehicle department directly.
