Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) fraud is a growing concern in Australia’s used car market. Stolen vehicles, rebirthed cars, and odometer tampering can all be disguised with altered VINs. Before you even run a comprehensive VIN check, you need to ensure the VIN itself is authentic. Here’s how to protect yourself from VIN fraud.

1. Know Where to Find the VIN

A vehicle’s VIN should appear in multiple locations. Always check and compare at least three of these spots:

• Windshield (driver’s side, visible from outside)
• Driver’s door jamb or door post
• Compliance plate in engine bay
• Vehicle registration documents
• Service history booklet
• Insurance documents

If the numbers don’t match across locations, this is a major red flag.

2. Examine for Signs of Tampering

Physical VIN plates should be free from these suspicious signs:

• Irregular spacing between characters
• Different font styles or sizes within the same VIN
• Signs of scratching, grinding, or alteration
• Loose rivets or non-standard attachment methods
• Misaligned characters or plate
• Recent paint or adhesive around the plate

Use your smartphone’s flashlight at an angle to spot uneven surfaces that might indicate tampering.

3. Decode the VIN Yourself

Every VIN follows a standardized format where specific positions have defined meanings:

• First 3 characters: World Manufacturer Identifier
• Characters 4-8: Vehicle description (model, body type, etc.)
• 9th character: Security check digit
• 10th character: Model year
• 11th character: Assembly plant
• Last 6 characters: Sequential production number

Use free online VIN decoders to verify that the basic details match what you see. If a VIN reports the vehicle as a sedan but you’re looking at a SUV, something is wrong.

4. Check the VIN’s Check Digit

The 9th character in the VIN is a mathematically calculated “check digit” designed to catch errors or fraud. While calculating it manually is complex, online VIN validation tools can verify if this digit is correct for the sequence. An incorrect check digit indicates the VIN has been altered.

5. Use Multiple Verification Methods

Don’t rely on just one method to confirm authenticity:

• Cross-reference with manufacturer’s records (contact the dealership)
• Compare with previous inspection certificates
• Check service history documentation
• Verify against registration documents
• Use multiple online VIN check services
• Consider paying for a comprehensive vehicle history report

Red Flag Scenarios That Suggest Possible Fraud

Be especially wary if you encounter these situations:

• Seller reluctant to show you where VIN plates are located
• Seller has “just registered” the vehicle shortly before selling
• VIN plates look newer than the vehicle itself
• Vehicle is priced significantly below market value
• Seller pressures you to make a quick decision
• Vehicle has interstate plates but seller can’t clearly explain its history

Case Study: How James Spotted VIN Fraud

James was considering buying a 2019 Toyota Hilux at an attractive price. When comparing the VINs, he noticed slight differences in font between the compliance plate and windscreen VIN. Further inspection revealed signs of tampering on the compliance plate. A checking service confirmed his suspicions: the vehicle had been stolen interstate and given a new identity. His attention to detail saved him from a potentially devastating purchase.

“It takes just 5 minutes to check all VIN locations on a vehicle. Those 5 minutes could save you from buying someone else’s stolen property.” — Vehicle Security Expert

Conclusion: Trust But Verify

VIN verification should be your first step before even considering a purchase. Only after confirming the VIN’s authenticity should you proceed with a comprehensive VIN check service. This two-step approach provides the strongest protection against vehicle fraud in Australia’s used car market.

Remember: legitimate sellers will always be happy to allow you time to verify vehicle details thoroughly. Anyone rushing you through this process has something to hide.