Free VIN Decoder & Lookup
Enter any 17-character VIN to instantly decode the year, make, model,
trim, engine, and drivetrain, plus a live check for open NHTSA safety
recalls. No signup. Free forever. Powered by the same decoder built into
GreaseGoose auto repair shop software.
What is a VIN?
A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the unique 17-character code that
identifies a specific vehicle. Every car and truck built since 1981 has
one. The VIN encodes the manufacturer, the vehicle's attributes (model,
body style, engine), the model year, the assembly plant, and a serial
number. A VIN never uses the letters I, O, or Q.
What this VIN decoder tells you
This free decoder reads the VIN through the official NHTSA vPIC database
and returns the vehicle's year, make, model, trim, body class, engine,
displacement, cylinder count, drive type, fuel type, manufacturer, and
plant country. It then checks the NHTSA recall database and reports any
open safety recalls for that year, make, and model.
How to find your VIN
- On the dash at the base of the windshield, driver's side
- On the sticker inside the driver's door jamb
- On your vehicle registration and insurance card
- On the vehicle title
Run your whole shop on this
GreaseGoose is auto repair shop management software for independent 1 to 5
bay shops. Unlimited VIN decoding and recall checks are built in, alongside
digital estimates, customer texting, Stripe payments, and QuickBooks sync.
Plans start at $39.99/mo with a free 14-day trial, no credit card required.
See pricing details.
Frequently asked questions
What is a VIN decoder?
A VIN decoder reads the 17-character VIN and translates it into the vehicle's year, make, model, trim, engine, body style, drivetrain, and assembly plant, using the official NHTSA vPIC database.
Is the GreaseGoose VIN decoder free?
Yes. Decoding a VIN here is free, with no signup and no credit card.
Does it check for recalls?
Yes. After decoding the VIN we check the NHTSA recall database for that year, make, and model and show any open safety recalls.
Where do I find my VIN?
The VIN is at the base of the windshield on the driver's side, on the driver's door jamb sticker, on your registration and insurance card, and on the vehicle title. It is always 17 characters and never contains I, O, or Q.