Help / FAQ / Questions
Pricing
• VIN Report / VIN Check — no charge for this service.
• Vehicle History Report — a one-time nominal charge (non-recurring) is required to access the full history-report.
VIN Report FAQ
Where do the VIN results come from?
The VIN report tool derives its data from several sources: Our own vehicle-specifications database, a calculation from the VIN (as per ISO 3779 & ISO 3780), and data directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Are there limits on VIN lookups?
There are no limits on use.
How accurate are the VIN results?
XVEA uses data from the NHTSA, an agency of the U.S. federal government, which in turn receives data from vehicle manufacturers. This makes the VIN results from our online vehicle information tools as accurate as possible.
Are VIN lookup generally free?
Yes, our standard VIN lookup is completely free. You can check any U.S. vehicle identification number (VIN) without charge. Additional detailed vehicle history reports require a small one-time fee.
What information can I expect from a free VIN lookup?
A free VIN lookup provides vehicle make, model, year, body style, engine details, and basic manufacturer-submitted specifications. It may also include NHTSA safety data and open recalls. For ownership and accident history, a paid vehicle history report is required.
Does a free VIN lookup show recalls?
Yes, our VIN lookup tool integrates directly with NHTSA recall databases. If the vehicle has an open safety recall, it will be displayed in the results.
What country vehicles are compatible?
USA, Canada and some vehicles from the EU. Vehicles registered in the UK will have limited results. Visit our UK VIN tool - VIN Report UK for full vehicle specs and MOT information.
Does the VIN lookup cover motorcycles?
Yes, motorcycle VIN lookups are included. You can check motorcycles from most major manufacturers including Harley-Davidson, Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, and BMW.
About the specifications returned
Absent values should not be taken as a sign that a feature or technology is unavailable for that specific vehicle. Results will be what the manufacturer has provided to the NHTSA.
Vehicle History Report FAQ
Should I use the history report when buying a used car?
Yes, a vehicle history report is an important step when purchasing a used vehicle. It allows you to confirm manufacturer details and see potential undocumented issues, giving peace of mind before making a decision.
Who provides the Vehicle History Check report?
The Vehicle History Report is produced by our partner carVertical™. They implement a modern Connected Reporting™ technology to ensure up-to-date vehicle history information.
Can motorcycles be checked for history information?
Yes, cars, trucks and motorcycles are all covered.
General Questions
What is an NHTSA VIN lookup?
An NHTSA VIN lookup retrieves vehicle data directly from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, including recall information, manufacturer specifications, and compliance details. Our free VIN tool integrates NHTSA data.
Can I look up a Ford VIN?
Yes, our system supports Ford VIN lookups for cars, trucks, and SUVs registered in the United States and Canada. VIN decoding provides manufacturer details, specifications, and safety data from NHTSA.
Can I look up a Toyota VIN?
Yes, Toyota VIN lookups are supported. Results may include vehicle specifications, recall information, and safety records submitted by Toyota to the NHTSA.
Can I look up a BMW VIN?
Yes, BMW VIN lookups are supported. Results may include factory specifications, model data, and NHTSA recall details for vehicles registered in the U.S. and Canada.
What is a VIN number?
A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique 17-character code assigned to every motor vehicle when it is manufactured. It identifies the make, model, year, and other key specifications of the vehicle.
Where can I find my VIN?
Your VIN can usually be found in several places on your vehicle: on the dashboard near the windshield on the driver’s side, on the driver’s side door frame, on your insurance card, or on your vehicle registration documents.
Is there an VIN API available?
Sorry, no API
Does a VIN check show accidents?
A free VIN lookup does not include accident history. To see reported accidents, damage records, or insurance claims, you will need a paid Vehicle History Report.
Do VIN numbers ever change?
No, a VIN is permanent and cannot be legally changed. If a vehicle has a tampered or missing VIN, this may indicate fraud or that the vehicle has been stolen.
Can I look up a vehicle by license plate?
No, our service is strictly VIN-based. You will need the 17-character VIN number to run a lookup.
Why should I check a VIN?
Checking a VIN helps confirm the identity of a vehicle, uncover safety recalls, and verify manufacturer specifications.
The full vehicle history report can also reveal past accidents, title issues, or odometer rollbacks.